Wiley Miller Dam Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 5, 2025
Wiley Miller Dam, also known as Wiley Miller Impoundment, is a private-owned structure located in Manuel, Perry County, Kentucky.
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Summary
Built in 1972 and designed by CBC Engineers, this earth dam stands at 68 feet high and stretches 300 feet in length. Its primary purpose is for recreation, offering a storage capacity of 142 acre-feet with a normal storage of 40 acre-feet. The dam sits on Wiley Miller Branch and is regulated by the Kentucky Division of Water.
With a hazard potential rated as high and a fair condition assessment, Wiley Miller Dam poses moderate risks, as indicated by a risk assessment rating of 3. Although there are no associated structures or locks, the dam features an uncontrolled spillway type. The last inspection was conducted in February 2018, with inspections scheduled annually to ensure its safety and compliance with regulations. The dam's location within a small drainage area of 0.39 square miles and its surface area of 4.1 acres make it an essential water resource for both recreational and environmental purposes in the region.
For water resource and climate enthusiasts, Wiley Miller Dam presents a unique opportunity to explore the intersection of human engineering and natural ecosystems. Its presence in the Louisville District of Kentucky showcases the balance between water management for recreation and the potential risks associated with dam infrastructure. As a privately-owned facility with state regulation and inspection, the dam provides valuable insights into the importance of maintaining and assessing the safety of water structures to ensure the sustainability of water resources for future generations.
Year Completed |
1972 |
Dam Length |
300 |
Dam Height |
68 |
River Or Stream |
WILEY MILLER BRANCH |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
4.1 |
Drainage Area |
0.39 |
Nid Storage |
142 |
Hazard Potential |
High |
Nid Height |
68 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
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.
Area Campgrounds
| Location | Reservations | Toilets |
|---|---|---|
Trace Branch - Buckhorn Lake
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Gays Creek Campground
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Buckhorn Dam Rec Area - Buckhorn Lake
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Wiley Miller Dam