S.E. Austin Lake Dam Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 13, 2025
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Summary
Austin Lake Dam, located in the Bells Chapel Area of Kentucky, was completed in 1959 and is owned by a private entity. With a primary purpose of recreation, this earth dam stands at a height of 38 feet and spans 400 feet in length, offering a storage capacity of 80 acre-feet. The dam is situated on Tr- Georges Creek and is regulated by the USDA NRCS, ensuring its safety and compliance with regulations.
Despite its high hazard potential, the condition assessment for S.E. Austin Lake Dam is currently listed as "Not Available," indicating a need for further inspection and evaluation. The dam features an uncontrolled spillway and outlet gates, with a moderate risk assessment rating of 3. While emergency preparedness measures such as an Emergency Action Plan (EAP) are not available at this time, the dam's risk management measures are also unspecified.
Water resource and climate enthusiasts may find S.E. Austin Lake Dam a point of interest due to its historical significance and recreational value. As a privately-owned structure with a moderate risk rating, there is a need for ongoing monitoring and maintenance to ensure the safety of both the dam and the surrounding community. Further evaluation and risk assessment are recommended to address the potential hazards associated with this important water resource infrastructure.
Year Completed |
1959 |
Dam Length |
400 |
Dam Height |
38 |
River Or Stream |
Tr- Georges Creek |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Drainage Area |
0.24 |
Nid Storage |
80 |
Outlet Gates |
Uncontrolled |
Hazard Potential |
High |
Foundations |
Rock, Soil |
Nid Height |
38 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Levisa Fork At Paintsville
|
1670cfs |
Tug Fork At Kermit
|
542cfs |
East Fork Twelvepole Creek Near Dunlow
|
25cfs |
Licking River Below Mason Fork Nr Salyersville
|
42cfs |
Tug Fork At Williamson
|
460cfs |
Johns Creek Near Meta
|
22cfs |
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.
S.E. Austin Lake Dam