Et Reed Dam Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 7, 2025
Located in Owen County, Kentucky, the Et Reed Dam, also known as Wild Deer Lake, is a private recreational dam completed in 1971 by the Soil Conservation Service.
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Summary
This earth dam stands at 29 feet tall and spans a length of 390 feet, with a storage capacity of 119 acre-feet and a surface area of 8 acres. Fed by the Paynes Run Creek, the dam is regulated and inspected by the Kentucky Division of Water, ensuring its safety and compliance with state standards.
With a low hazard potential and a moderate risk assessment rating, the Et Reed Dam provides a serene and recreational environment for water resource and climate enthusiasts to enjoy. While not currently rated for its condition, the dam has undergone inspections every five years, with the last one conducted in February 2017. The dam features an uncontrolled spillway and serves primarily for recreational purposes, offering opportunities for activities such as fishing, boating, and wildlife observation in the tranquil surroundings of Wild Deer Lake.
Managed by a private owner, the Et Reed Dam contributes to the conservation efforts in the area and serves as a valuable resource for the community. Its location near New Columbus and its proximity to the Louisville District make it a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts seeking to connect with nature and appreciate the beauty of this man-made water feature in Owen County, Kentucky.
Year Completed |
1971 |
Dam Length |
390 |
Dam Height |
29 |
River Or Stream |
PAYNES RUN CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
8 |
Drainage Area |
0.22 |
Nid Storage |
119 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Nid Height |
29 |
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.
Et Reed Dam