J. Horton Lake Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

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Summary

Horton Lake Dam, located in Locust Vicinity, Kentucky, is a privately owned earth dam that was completed in 1969 with the primary purpose of water supply. The dam stands at a height of 26 feet and has a length of 300 feet, with a storage capacity of 49 acre-feet. The dam is situated on Locust Creek -Os and is regulated by the USDA NRCS.

Despite being classified as having a low hazard potential, the dam is considered to have a moderate risk level. The spillway type is uncontrolled with a width of 12 feet, and the outlet gates are also uncontrolled. The dam has not been inspected recently, and its condition assessment is not available. The risk management measures and emergency preparedness plans for the dam are currently not documented.

For water resource and climate enthusiasts, J. Horton Lake Dam presents an intriguing case study in dam infrastructure and risk assessment. Its location in Fleming County, Kentucky, along with its design and purpose, offer valuable insights into the management of water resources in the region. The dam's moderate risk level highlights the importance of regular inspections and monitoring to ensure the safety and reliability of such critical infrastructure in the face of changing environmental conditions.

Year Completed

1969

Dam Length

300

Dam Height

26

River Or Stream

Locust Creek -Os

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Drainage Area

0.07

Nid Storage

49

Outlet Gates

Uncontrolled

Hazard Potential

Low

Foundations

Rock, Soil

Nid Height

26
       
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.