Hurt Lake Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 13, 2025
Located in Todd County, Kentucky, Hurt Lake is a privately owned water resource that serves as a popular spot for recreational activities.
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Summary
This earth dam, completed in 1967, stands at 23 feet tall and spans 304 feet in length, with a storage capacity of 72 acre-feet. The lake covers 8.3 acres and is fed by the Red River, offering a serene setting for fishing, boating, and other outdoor pursuits.
Although Hurt Lake has a low hazard potential, its condition assessment is rated as poor, indicating a need for maintenance and potential improvements. The dam is under the regulatory oversight of the Kentucky Division of Water, with state permitting, inspection, and enforcement in place to ensure the safety and proper management of the structure. Despite its current condition, the lake continues to attract visitors seeking a peaceful retreat in the heart of Kentucky's countryside.
For water resource and climate enthusiasts, Hurt Lake presents an intriguing case study in the intersection of recreational use and infrastructure maintenance. With a moderate risk assessment and a history dating back to the late 1960s, this tranquil oasis on the Red River invites further exploration and consideration of the challenges and opportunities inherent in managing and preserving our natural water resources.
Year Completed |
1967 |
Dam Length |
304 |
Dam Height |
23 |
River Or Stream |
RED RIVER |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
8.3 |
Drainage Area |
0.56 |
Nid Storage |
72 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Nid Height |
23 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Pond River Near Apex
|
39cfs |
Red River At Port Royal
|
195cfs |
Green River At Paradise
|
1890cfs |
West Fork Drakes Creek Near Franklin
|
24cfs |
Little River Near Cadiz
|
485cfs |
Sycamore Creek Near Ashland City
|
27cfs |
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.
Hurt Lake