Lake Carnico (Middle) Dam Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 5, 2025
Lake Carnico (Middle) Dam is a vital structure situated on Hinkston Creek in Millersburg, Kentucky.
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Summary
Built in 1962 by the Kentucky Transportation Cabinet, this earth dam stands at a height of 30 feet and spans 575 feet in length. The dam serves primarily for recreational purposes, offering a serene setting for water enthusiasts and nature lovers alike in Nicholas County.
With a storage capacity of 111.3 acre-feet, Lake Carnico (Middle) Dam provides a normal storage volume of 93.7 acre-feet and covers a surface area of 10.3 acres. Despite its significant hazard potential, the dam has a satisfactory condition assessment as of October 2017. The Kentucky Division of Water regulates and inspects the dam regularly to ensure its safety and compliance with state guidelines, with an inspection frequency of 3 years.
Overall, Lake Carnico (Middle) Dam presents a moderate risk level, with measures in place to manage any potential hazards effectively. Its picturesque surroundings and recreational opportunities make it a popular destination for water resource and climate enthusiasts in the region, offering a tranquil escape for visitors to enjoy the beauty of Kentucky's natural landscapes.
Year Completed |
1962 |
Dam Length |
575 |
Dam Height |
30 |
River Or Stream |
HINKSTON CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
10.3 |
Drainage Area |
0.15 |
Nid Storage |
111.3 |
Hazard Potential |
Significant |
Nid Height |
30 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Dam Data Reference
Condition Assessment
SatisfactoryNo 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
HighDams 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.
Lake Carnico (Middle) Dam