Leo Reader Dam Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 13, 2025
Leo Reader Dam, also known as Reader Lake, is a private-owned structure located in Columbia, Kentucky.
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Summary
Built in 1967 by the Natural Resources Conservation Service, this earth-type dam serves primarily for recreation purposes, offering a serene spot for water enthusiasts in the Russell County area. With a height of 23 feet and a storage capacity of 71 acre-feet, Leo Reader Dam stands as a low-hazard structure with a moderate risk assessment.
Managed by the Kentucky Division of Water, Leo Reader Dam overlooks the Hudson Creek offstream and covers a surface area of 5 acres within a drainage area of 0.27 square miles. Despite its uncontrolled spillway type and a last inspection conducted in 2007, the dam has not been rated for its condition. However, it continues to be a popular destination for outdoor activities and water-related recreation in the region, attracting visitors to its picturesque surroundings.
As a testament to the ingenuity of its designers at SCS - J.H. Dickinson, Leo Reader Dam has stood the test of time for over five decades, offering a tranquil escape for individuals seeking a peaceful retreat by the water. With its low hazard potential and well-maintained state permitting, inspection, and enforcement, Leo Reader Dam remains a reliable and safe water resource for both locals and visitors alike, showcasing the beauty and resilience of Kentucky's water infrastructure amidst ever-changing climate conditions.
Year Completed |
1967 |
Dam Length |
390 |
Dam Height |
23 |
River Or Stream |
HUDSON CREEK OFFSTREAM |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
5 |
Drainage Area |
0.27 |
Nid Storage |
71 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Nid Height |
23 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
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.
Leo Reader Dam