Paris Lower City Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

The Paris Lower City Dam in Bourbon, Kentucky, is a gravity dam completed in 1956 with a primary purpose of water supply from Stoner Creek.


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Summary

Designed by Howard K. Bell from Lexington, KY, this structure stands at a height of 20 feet and spans 127 feet in length, holding a storage capacity of 584 acre-feet. The dam is regulated by the KY Division of Water and has a low hazard potential with a fair condition assessment as of August 2017.

Located in the city of Paris, the dam serves as a vital water resource for the community, ensuring a reliable water supply for residents and businesses. The dam's uncontrolled spillway type signifies its ability to release excess water during periods of high flow, mitigating the risk of flooding downstream. With a moderate risk assessment rating, the Paris Lower City Dam is subject to regular inspections and maintenance to ensure its continued safety and functionality for the surrounding area.

Managed by the local government, this dam on Stoner Creek plays a critical role in water management and supply for the region. As an essential piece of infrastructure, it highlights the intersection of water resource management and climate resilience, showcasing the importance of sustainable practices in safeguarding our natural resources for future generations.

Year Completed

1956

Dam Length

127

Dam Height

20

River Or Stream

STONER CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Gravity

Surface Area

111

Drainage Area

182

Nid Storage

584

Hazard Potential

Low

Nid Height

20
       
Seasonal Comparison

Weather Forecast

Dam Data Reference

Condition Assessment

Satisfactory
No existing or potential dam safety deficiencies are recognized. Acceptable performance is expected under all loading conditions (static, hydrologic, seismic) in accordance with the minimum applicable state or federal regulatory criteria or tolerable risk guidelines.
Fair
No existing dam safety deficiencies are recognized for normal operating conditions. Rare or extreme hydrologic and/or seismic events may result in a dam safety deficiency. Risk may be in the range to take further action. Note: Rare or extreme event is defined by the regulatory agency based on their minimum
Poor A dam safety deficiency is recognized for normal operating conditions which may realistically occur. Remedial action is necessary. POOR may also be used when uncertainties exist as to critical analysis parameters which identify a potential dam safety deficiency. Investigations and studies are necessary.
Unsatisfactory
A dam safety deficiency is recognized that requires immediate or emergency remedial action for problem resolution.
Not Rated
The dam has not been inspected, is not under state or federal jurisdiction, or has been inspected but, for whatever reason, has not been rated.
Not Available
Dams for which the condition assessment is restricted to approved government users.

Hazard Potential Classification

High
Dams assigned the high hazard potential classification are those where failure or mis-operation will probably cause loss of human life.
Significant
Dams assigned the significant hazard potential classification are those dams where failure or mis-operation results in no probable loss of human life but can cause economic loss, environment damage, disruption of lifeline facilities, or impact other concerns. Significant hazard potential classification dams are often located in predominantly rural or agricultural areas but could be in areas with population and significant infrastructure.
Low
Dams assigned the low hazard potential classification are those where failure or mis-operation results in no probable loss of human life and low economic and/or environmental losses. Losses are principally limited to the owner's property.
Undetermined
Dams for which a downstream hazard potential has not been designated or is not provided.
Not Available
Dams for which the downstream hazard potential is restricted to approved government users.