Cave Fork Lake Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Cave Fork Lake Dam in Lee County, Kentucky, stands as a testament to engineering ingenuity, completed in 1955 and serving as a vital water resource for the region.


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Summary

This private-owned earth dam on Sinking Creek boasts a height of 28 feet and a length of 200 feet, with a storage capacity of 180 acre-feet and a surface area of 14.2 acres. Despite its relatively low hazard potential and moderate risk assessment, the dam remains state-regulated and inspected, ensuring its safety and functionality.

Managed by the Kentucky Division of Water, Cave Fork Lake Dam is designed to serve various purposes beyond flood control, making it a multi-functional structure that contributes to the local ecosystem. With its uncontrolled spillway and state-permitted operations, the dam plays a crucial role in water management and conservation efforts within the area. Although not currently rated for its condition, the dam's infrastructure and design continue to withstand the test of time, providing a reliable water source for the community.

Located in a picturesque setting with a drainage area of 1.43 square miles, Cave Fork Lake Dam represents a harmonious blend of human engineering and natural beauty. As climate change poses new challenges to water resources, this dam stands as a resilient structure that exemplifies the importance of sustainable water management practices. For water resource and climate enthusiasts, Cave Fork Lake Dam serves as a fascinating example of how infrastructure can coexist with nature to meet the needs of a changing environment.

Year Completed

1955

Dam Length

200

Dam Height

28

River Or Stream

SINKING CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

14.2

Drainage Area

1.43

Nid Storage

180

Hazard Potential

Low

Nid Height

28
       
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.