Big Horn Lake Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Big Horn Lake Dam, located in Fairdale, Kentucky, is a privately owned earth dam primarily used for recreation.


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Summary

Built in 1961, the dam stands at 28 feet tall and spans 450 feet in length, creating a reservoir with a storage capacity of 55 acre-feet. The dam is situated on TR-Bee Lick Creek and is regulated by the Kentucky Division of Water, with regular inspections conducted to ensure its safety and compliance with state regulations.

Despite its recreational purposes, Big Horn Lake Dam has been assessed to be in poor condition with a significant hazard potential. The last inspection in February 2018 revealed the dam's structural deficiencies, prompting the need for risk management measures to mitigate potential hazards. With a moderate risk assessment rating, it is crucial for the dam owners to address the poor condition of the structure and take necessary actions to ensure the safety of the surrounding community and environment.

As a significant piece of infrastructure in Jefferson County, Kentucky, Big Horn Lake Dam plays a vital role in water resource management and flood control. With its uncontrolled spillway and limited drainage area, the dam poses a potential risk in the event of extreme weather events. It is imperative for the owners and regulatory agencies to work together to improve the dam's condition, implement emergency preparedness measures, and prioritize the safety of the dam and its associated structures for the benefit of the local community and environment.

Year Completed

1961

Dam Length

450

Dam Height

28

River Or Stream

TR-BEE LICK CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

3.2

Drainage Area

0.06

Nid Storage

55

Hazard Potential

Significant

Nid Height

28
       
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.