Plum Creek Frs No 17 Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 6, 2025

Plum Creek FRS No 17 in Waterford, Kentucky, is a crucial structure designed for flood risk reduction along the Plum Creek river.


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Summary

Owned by the local government and regulated by the KY Division of Water, this Earth-type dam stands at a height of 37 feet and has a length of 420 feet, providing storage capacity of 216 acre-feet. Completed in 1960, this dam plays a vital role in mitigating flood risks in the region.

Despite its important function, the dam is currently in poor condition, with a low hazard potential and a moderate risk assessment. The last inspection conducted in 2008 highlighted the need for improvements and maintenance to ensure the structure's continued effectiveness in flood risk reduction. With a drainage area of 0.55 square miles and a surface area of 3.2 acres, Plum Creek FRS No 17 requires attention to bring it up to standard and enhance its performance in safeguarding the local community from potential flooding events.

As water resource and climate enthusiasts, understanding and advocating for the upkeep and improvement of structures like Plum Creek FRS No 17 is essential in ensuring the resilience of communities in the face of changing climate patterns and increasing water-related risks. By supporting initiatives to enhance the condition and functionality of dams like this, we can contribute to a more sustainable and secure water management system that benefits both people and the environment.

Year Completed

1960

Dam Length

420

Dam Height

37

River Or Stream

PLUM CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

3.2

Drainage Area

0.55

Nid Storage

216

Hazard Potential

Low

Nid Height

37
       
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.