Upper Green River Frs No 5 Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 6, 2025

Upper Green River FRS No 5 is a crucial flood risk reduction structure located in Lincoln, Kentucky, along the South Fork Green River.


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Summary

Built in 1959 by the Soil Conservation Service and currently regulated by the KY Division of Water, this earth dam stands at 38 feet in height and spans 550 feet in length. With a storage capacity of 309.3 acre-feet and a drainage area of 1.56 square miles, the dam serves to protect the surrounding area from potential flooding events.

Despite its low hazard potential and moderate risk assessment, Upper Green River FRS No 5 has not been rated for its condition assessment. It undergoes inspections every 5 years, with the last one being conducted in September 2013. Although its Emergency Action Plan status and risk management measures are unclear, its primary purpose of flood risk reduction remains paramount. As a water resource enthusiast, this structure presents an opportunity to delve into the intricate balance between infrastructure development and environmental conservation in the face of climate change.

Overall, Upper Green River FRS No 5 embodies the collaborative efforts between local government agencies and the Natural Resources Conservation Service to safeguard communities from potential flood risks. Its strategic location, design by the USDA NRCS, and ongoing regulation by the Kentucky state authorities highlight the importance of proactive water resource management in mitigating climate-related challenges. With its significant impact on flood control along the South Fork Green River, this structure serves as a beacon of resilience and adaptability in the face of changing environmental conditions.

Year Completed

1959

Dam Length

550

Dam Height

38

River Or Stream

SOUTH FORK GREEN RIVER

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

5.4

Drainage Area

1.56

Nid Storage

309.3

Hazard Potential

Low

Nid Height

38
       
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.