Bridge Fork Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Bridge Fork Dam, also known as Bridge Fork Lake, is a private-owned structure located in Cumberland Falls State Park, Kentucky.


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Summary

Completed in 1930, this earth dam stands at a height of 105 feet and has a length of 1450 feet, with a storage capacity of 2500 acre-feet. The dam serves multiple purposes, including providing recreational opportunities and regulating the flow of the East Apple Tree Branch river.

Despite its historical significance and recreational value, Bridge Fork Dam is currently rated as having poor condition assessment and a significant hazard potential. The last inspection in 2016 revealed the need for improvement, with a moderate risk assessment (3) indicating the importance of implementing risk management measures. It is regulated by the Kentucky Division of Water and falls under state jurisdiction for permitting, inspection, and enforcement.

Water resource and climate enthusiasts visiting Bridge Fork Dam can appreciate its role in water management and the surrounding natural ecosystem. With its location in a state park and proximity to Cumberland Falls, this dam stands as a testament to the importance of maintaining and monitoring infrastructure for both safety and environmental preservation.

Year Completed

1930

Dam Length

1450

Dam Height

105

River Or Stream

EAST APPLE TREE BRANCH

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

11

Drainage Area

0.6

Nid Storage

2500

Hazard Potential

Significant

Nid Height

105
       
Seasonal Comparison

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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.