Star Hill Distillery Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Star Hill Distillery Dam, also known as Star Hill Lake, is a privately owned structure located in Marion, Kentucky.


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Summary

Built in 1948, this earth-type dam stands at a height of 58 feet and spans 535 feet in length, creating a reservoir with a storage capacity of 82 acre-feet. The dam, situated on TR-Hardins Creek, is regulated by the Kentucky Division of Water and undergoes regular inspections to ensure its safety and compliance with state guidelines.

With a low hazard potential and a moderate risk assessment rating, the Star Hill Distillery Dam plays a crucial role in water resource management in the region. The dam's primary purpose is listed as "Other," serving various functions beyond flood control or water supply. Despite its age, the dam has not been rated for its condition assessment, indicating the need for further evaluation and potentially implementing risk management measures to address any identified vulnerabilities.

The Louisville District of the US Army Corps of Engineers does not have jurisdiction over this dam, highlighting its unique ownership and regulatory framework. As a key feature in the local landscape, the Star Hill Distillery Dam represents a blend of history, engineering, and environmental stewardship, making it a notable site for water resource and climate enthusiasts to explore and appreciate.

Year Completed

1948

Dam Length

535

Dam Height

58

River Or Stream

TR-HARDINS CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

6.4

Drainage Area

0.12

Nid Storage

82

Hazard Potential

Low

Nid Height

58
       
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.