Priester Lake Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 8, 2025

Located in McCracken County, Kentucky, Priester Lake Dam is a state-owned structure on the Clarks River, serving primarily for recreational purposes.


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Summary

Built in 1940, the earth dam stands at a height of 29 feet and spans 355 feet in length. With a storage capacity of 324.6 acre-feet, the dam covers a surface area of 13.8 acres and drains a watershed area of 0.18 square miles.

Despite its low hazard potential, Priester Lake Dam has been assessed as being in poor condition as of the last inspection in 2016. The state-regulated dam is monitored and inspected by the Kentucky Division of Water, with enforcement and permitting responsibilities falling under state jurisdiction. The dam's Emergency Action Plan (EAP) was last revised in 2013, and although the risk assessment indicates a moderate level of risk, specific risk management measures are not detailed in the available data.

Overall, Priester Lake Dam presents a unique opportunity for water resource and climate enthusiasts to explore a historic dam structure in a picturesque setting in Paducah, Kentucky. While the dam's functionality for recreational purposes is evident, ongoing efforts may be needed to address the identified poor condition and ensure the safety and sustainability of this vital water resource infrastructure.

Year Completed

1940

Dam Length

355

Dam Height

29

River Or Stream

CLARKS RIVER

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

13.8

Drainage Area

0.18

Nid Storage

324.6

Hazard Potential

Low

Nid Height

29
       
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.