Cl Ratcliff Dam Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 13, 2025
Located in Pierce Mill, Kentucky, Cl Ratcliff Dam, also known as Ratcliff Lake, is a private dam with a primary purpose of recreation.
°F
°F
mph
Wind
%
Humidity
Summary
Built in 1972 by designer Walter Robinson Custer, this earth-type dam stands at 25 feet tall and stretches 530 feet in length, creating a reservoir with a storage capacity of 71.8 acre-feet. The dam sits on TR-KEESE BRANCH and is regulated by the KY Division of Water, ensuring proper permitting, inspection, and enforcement measures are in place.
With a low hazard potential and moderate risk assessment, Cl Ratcliff Dam provides a safe recreational environment for visitors to enjoy activities such as fishing, boating, and hiking around the 6.6-acre reservoir. Despite not being rated for its condition assessment, the dam undergoes inspections every 5 years, with the last one conducted in July 2007. While the dam does not have an Emergency Action Plan (EAP) in place, it meets regulatory guidelines and is equipped to manage potential risks effectively.
In the heart of Hardin, Kentucky, Cl Ratcliff Dam stands as a testament to both engineering excellence and environmental stewardship. Its tranquil surroundings and well-maintained facilities make it a popular destination for water resource and climate enthusiasts seeking to appreciate the beauty and importance of sustainable water management practices in a recreational setting.
Year Completed |
1972 |
Dam Length |
530 |
Dam Height |
25 |
River Or Stream |
TR-KEESE BRANCH |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
6.6 |
Drainage Area |
0.24 |
Nid Storage |
71.8 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Nid Height |
25 |
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.
Cl Ratcliff Dam