Cap & Ed Hays Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 13, 2025

Cap & Ed Hays Dam, also known as Hays & Cap Lake Dam, is a privately owned structure located in Jackson, Kentucky.


°F

°F

mph

Wind

%

Humidity

Summary

Built in 1966, this earth dam stands at a height of 18 feet and spans 400 feet in length. The primary purpose of the dam is for recreation, offering a storage capacity of 77 acre-feet and covering a surface area of 6.2 acres.

Managed by the Kentucky Division of Water, the dam is regulated, inspected, and enforced by state authorities to ensure its safety and compliance with regulations. Despite being rated as having a low hazard potential, the risk assessment for Cap & Ed Hays Dam indicates a moderate level of risk, with a moderate risk management measure in place. The last inspection was conducted in July 2011, with a scheduled inspection frequency of every 5 years.

Situated along the TR-FLAT LICK CREEK and under the jurisdiction of the Nashville District, Cap & Ed Hays Dam offers a tranquil recreational spot in the Grey Hawk area of Kentucky. With its picturesque surroundings and moderate risk level, this dam serves as an essential water resource for the community while providing opportunities for outdoor activities and enjoyment for water resource and climate enthusiasts alike.

Year Completed

1966

Dam Length

400

Dam Height

18

River Or Stream

TR-FLAT LICK CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

6.2

Drainage Area

0.05

Nid Storage

77

Hazard Potential

Low

Nid Height

18
       
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.