Arlington Dam (Lower) Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Arlington Dam (Lower), located in Madison County, Kentucky, along the Tate Creek, was completed in 1970 and serves primarily for recreation purposes.


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Summary

The earth dam stands at a height of 25 feet and has a length of 320 feet, creating a reservoir with a storage capacity of 44.6 acre-feet and a surface area of 3 acres. The dam is state-regulated by the Kentucky Division of Water, with inspections conducted every 5 years to ensure its structural integrity.

Despite being classified as having a low hazard potential, Arlington Dam (Lower) has a moderate risk assessment rating. The dam's condition assessment is currently listed as "Not Rated," and there is no Emergency Action Plan (EAP) in place. The dam's spillway is uncontrolled, and there are no associated locks or outlet gates. The dam is situated in a picturesque setting, offering opportunities for recreational activities such as fishing, boating, and wildlife observation.

For water resource and climate enthusiasts, Arlington Dam (Lower) presents an interesting case study in dam engineering and management. With its location in a beautiful natural setting and its important role in providing recreational opportunities, the dam serves as a reminder of the delicate balance between human development and environmental stewardship. As efforts continue to assess and mitigate the risks associated with the dam, it stands as a testament to the importance of responsible water resource management in the face of changing climatic conditions.

Year Completed

1970

Dam Length

320

Dam Height

25

River Or Stream

TATE CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

3

Drainage Area

0.2

Nid Storage

44.6

Hazard Potential

Low

Nid Height

25
       
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.