Shadwell Farms Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Shadwell Farms, located in Scott County, Kentucky, is a private irrigation structure regulated by the Kentucky Division of Water.


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Summary

Constructed in 1963 by the Soil Conservation Service, this earth dam on South Elkhorn Creek serves the primary purpose of irrigation, with a storage capacity of 43.6 acre-feet and a surface area of 1.5 acres. The dam stands at 28 feet high and spans 310 feet in length, providing essential water resources for agricultural activities in the area.

Despite being classified as having a low hazard potential, Shadwell Farms is subject to regular inspections every five years, with the last assessment conducted in April 2013. The dam's condition is currently rated as "Not Rated," but its risk assessment is moderate, indicating the need for ongoing monitoring and potential risk management measures. With its scenic location and vital role in supporting water resources for agricultural irrigation, Shadwell Farms stands as a testament to sustainable water management practices in the region.

As a key component of the local water infrastructure, Shadwell Farms plays a crucial role in the management of water resources in the Forks of Elkhorn community. With its historical significance dating back to the 1960s and its continued operation under the oversight of the Kentucky Division of Water, this earth dam serves as a valuable asset for the region's agricultural sector. By ensuring the proper maintenance and monitoring of this structure, water resource and climate enthusiasts can appreciate the vital role that Shadwell Farms plays in sustaining agricultural productivity and environmental stewardship in Scott County, Kentucky.

Year Completed

1963

Dam Length

310

Dam Height

28

River Or Stream

SOUTH ELKHORN CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

1.5

Drainage Area

0.04

Nid Storage

43.6

Hazard Potential

Low

Nid Height

28
       
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.