Hayes Dam, located in Meade, Kentucky, is a privately owned structure completed in 1952 for the primary purpose of recreation. With a dam height of 28 feet and a length of 480 feet, Hayes Dam holds a normal storage capacity of 101.2 acre-feet within its 177 acre-feet storage area. The dam is situated on the offstream of Spring Creek in Concordia, providing a serene and picturesque setting for water resource and climate enthusiasts to enjoy.

Managed by the Kentucky Division of Water, Hayes Dam has a low hazard potential and is currently not rated for its condition assessment. Despite its moderate risk level, the dam has not been inspected since July 2007, with an inspection frequency of every 5 years. While the emergency action plan (EAP) status and risk management measures remain unknown, the dam is regulated, permitted, inspected, and enforced by the state authorities, ensuring its safety and compliance with regulations.

For those interested in water resource management and the environmental impact of dams, Hayes Dam offers a unique opportunity to witness firsthand the intersection of human engineering with natural landscapes. With its uncontrolled spillway and modest surface area of 11 acres, Hayes Dam presents an intriguing case study for understanding the dynamics of dam construction, operation, and maintenance in the context of climate change and water resource sustainability.