Earl Dean Lake Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 6, 2025

Earl Dean Lake Dam, located in Mercer County, Kentucky, is a privately owned structure designed for water resource management along Thompson Creek.


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Summary

Built in 1948, this Earth-type dam stands 27 feet tall and spans 375 feet in length, with a storage capacity of 55 acre-feet and a normal storage level of 37.3 acre-feet. The dam's primary purpose is classified as 'Other', serving various functions related to water control and conservation.

Managed by the Kentucky Division of Water, Earl Dean Lake Dam has a low hazard potential and a moderate risk assessment rating. Although last inspected in 2006 with a 5-year inspection frequency, the dam's condition is currently not rated. Despite its age, the dam continues to play a crucial role in regulating water flow in the area and mitigating potential risks associated with its operation. With its uncontrolled spillway type and proximity to the Louisville District, Earl Dean Lake Dam remains an essential infrastructure for water resource and climate enthusiasts to monitor and study in the region.

Year Completed

1948

Dam Length

375

Dam Height

27

River Or Stream

THOMPSON CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

3.7

Drainage Area

0.03

Nid Storage

55

Hazard Potential

Low

Nid Height

27
       
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.