Harold Bennett Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Harold Bennett Dam, also known as Bennett Lake, is a private-owned structure located in Boone, Kentucky, on Big Bone Creek.


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Summary

Completed in 1967, this earth dam stands at a height of 40 feet and spans 420 feet in length, with a storage capacity of 170 acre-feet. The primary purpose of this dam is recreation, offering a serene setting for water resource and climate enthusiasts to enjoy.

Managed by the Kentucky Division of Water, the Harold Bennett Dam is regulated, inspected, and enforced by state agencies to ensure its safety and functionality. With a low hazard potential and a moderate risk assessment, this dam provides a peaceful retreat for visitors while maintaining a level of security and risk management measures. Although not currently rated for condition assessment, the dam remains a vital resource for water storage and outdoor activities in the region.

Surrounded by the scenic beauty of Big Bone Creek, Harold Bennett Dam offers a tranquil escape for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts. With its uncontrolled spillway and a surface area of 9.2 acres, this recreational spot provides an opportunity to appreciate the intersection of water resources and climate dynamics in a serene setting. Whether for fishing, boating, or simply enjoying the natural environment, this dam serves as a valuable asset for the community and a hub for experiencing the wonders of water resources in Kentucky.

Year Completed

1967

Dam Length

420

Dam Height

40

River Or Stream

BIG BONE CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

9.2

Drainage Area

0.06

Nid Storage

170

Hazard Potential

Low

Nid Height

40
       
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.