John Barber Dam Reservoir Report
Nearby: Hugh L Grundy Farm Dam Sam Nally Dam
Last Updated: December 5, 2025
John Barber Dam, also known as Barber Lake, is a privately owned structure located in Fredericktown, Kentucky.
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Summary
Constructed in 1961 by the Soil Conservation Service, this earth dam stands at a height of 26 feet and spans 200 feet in length. Its primary purpose is for recreation, offering a serene oasis for water resource and climate enthusiasts to enjoy.
Managed by the Kentucky Division of Water, John Barber Dam has a low hazard potential and a moderate risk assessment rating. Despite not being rated for its condition, the dam has undergone inspections every five years, with the last one conducted in August 2007. With a storage capacity of 25.2 acre-feet and a surface area of 2 acres, this dam on TR-Cartwright Creek serves as both a recreational spot and a vital water resource in the area.
The dam's location in Washington County, Kentucky, adds to its appeal as a destination for outdoor activities. While it may not have a designated emergency action plan or inundation maps prepared, the dam's presence contributes to the overall water management efforts in the region. As an essential piece of infrastructure in the Louisville District, John Barber Dam exemplifies the intersection of water conservation, recreational enjoyment, and climate resilience.
Year Completed |
1961 |
Dam Length |
200 |
Dam Height |
26 |
River Or Stream |
TR-CARTWRIGHT CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
2 |
Drainage Area |
0.09 |
Nid Storage |
25.2 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Nid Height |
26 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Beech Fork At Maud
|
101cfs |
Beech Fork At Bardstown
|
177cfs |
Brashears Creek At Taylorsville
|
144cfs |
Salt River At Glensboro
|
70cfs |
Rolling Fork Near Boston
|
449cfs |
Long Lick At Clermont
|
1cfs |
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.
John Barber Dam