Lankford Dam Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 12, 2025
Lankford Dam, also known as Purdom Lake, is a private-owned structure located in Marion, Kentucky.
°F
°F
mph
Wind
%
Humidity
Summary
Built in 1970 by the Soil Conservation Service, this earth dam stands at a height of 33 feet and spans 350 feet in length. With a primary purpose of recreation, the dam offers a storage capacity of 45 acre-feet and covers a surface area of 3.2 acres, providing a picturesque setting for water resource and climate enthusiasts to explore.
Managed by the Kentucky Division of Water, Lankford Dam is regulated, inspected, and enforced by state authorities to ensure its safety and functionality. While the dam is classified with a high hazard potential, its condition assessment is rated as satisfactory as of the last inspection in December 2016. Even though it is an uncontrolled spillway type, the dam still meets guidelines and poses a moderate risk level, highlighting the importance of ongoing risk management measures and emergency preparedness.
Situated near Medlock Creek offstream, Lankford Dam offers a tranquil environment for outdoor activities, making it a popular destination for locals and visitors alike. As water levels fluctuate and the surrounding ecosystem thrives, this dam serves as a vital resource for both recreational enjoyment and environmental conservation efforts in the region.
Year Completed |
1970 |
Dam Length |
350 |
Dam Height |
33 |
River Or Stream |
MEDLOCK CK OFFSTREAM |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
3.2 |
Drainage Area |
0.06 |
Nid Storage |
45 |
Hazard Potential |
High |
Nid Height |
33 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Beech Fork At Maud
|
99cfs |
Green River Near Mckinney
|
7cfs |
Russell Creek Near Columbia
|
51cfs |
Beech Fork At Bardstown
|
163cfs |
North Fork Nolin River At Hodgenville
|
6cfs |
Dix River Near Danville
|
241cfs |
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.
Lankford Dam