Hancock Cnty Fish & Game Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Hancock County Fish & Game Dam, also known as Hancock County Fish & Game Lake, is a privately owned recreational dam located in Hancock, Kentucky.


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Summary

Constructed in 1960 by the Soil Conservation Service, this earth dam stands 35 feet tall and spans 425 feet in length, creating a reservoir with a storage capacity of 287.6 acre-feet. The dam is situated on Blackford Creek and is regulated by the KY Division of Water, with regular inspections and enforcement measures in place to ensure its safety and compliance with state regulations.

With a primary purpose of recreation, Hancock County Fish & Game Dam offers visitors a serene outdoor escape in the Scythia-area of Kentucky. Its low hazard potential and moderate risk assessment make it a popular destination for water resource and climate enthusiasts looking to enjoy activities such as fishing, boating, and wildlife observation. While the dam's condition is currently not rated, its last inspection in May 2015 deemed it safe for continued use, with an inspection frequency of every 5 years to monitor its integrity and performance.

Despite its uncontrolled spillway type, Hancock County Fish & Game Dam remains a reliable and well-maintained structure for recreational use. With its picturesque surroundings and ample storage capacity, this dam serves as both a functional water resource and a scenic attraction for outdoor enthusiasts in the region. Its location on Blackford Creek, in the heart of Hancock County, makes it a valuable asset for the community and a testament to the importance of sustainable water management practices in the face of changing climate conditions.

Year Completed

1960

Dam Length

425

Dam Height

35

River Or Stream

BLACKFORD CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

15.6

Drainage Area

0.1

Nid Storage

287.6

Hazard Potential

Low

Nid Height

35
       
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.