Ralph Waldrop Lake (East) Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 8, 2025
Ralph Waldrop Lake (East), also known as Waldrop Lake, is a private reservoir located in Graves County, Kentucky, near the city of Mayfield.
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Summary
The lake was completed in 1965 for recreational purposes and has a surface area of 7.49 acres, with a maximum storage capacity of 91 acre-feet. Situated along the TR-Little Mayfield Creek, the dam is of earth construction type, standing at a height of 21 feet and a length of 500 feet.
Despite its primary purpose for recreation, Ralph Waldrop Lake (East) poses a high hazard potential due to its condition assessment being rated as poor. In 2018, the last inspection revealed the need for significant improvements to ensure the safety and stability of the dam. With a moderate risk assessment score of 3, there is a pressing need for risk management measures to be implemented to mitigate potential hazards and ensure the protection of the surrounding area.
Managed by the Kentucky Division of Water, Ralph Waldrop Lake (East) serves as a vital water resource for the region, but its current state warrants attention to address safety concerns. As a destination for water resource and climate enthusiasts, the lake's scenic surroundings and recreational opportunities are juxtaposed with the need for proactive measures to enhance its structural integrity and mitigate risks associated with its high hazard potential.
Year Completed |
1965 |
Dam Length |
500 |
Dam Height |
21 |
River Or Stream |
TR-LITTLE MAYFIELD CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
7.49 |
Drainage Area |
0.2 |
Nid Storage |
91 |
Hazard Potential |
High |
Nid Height |
21 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Clarks River At Almo
|
41cfs |
Clarks River At Murray
|
15cfs |
Bayou De Chien Near Clinton
|
30cfs |
Massac Creek Near Paducah
|
2cfs |
North Fork Obion River Near Martin
|
266cfs |
Ohio River At Metropolis
|
444000cfs |
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.
Ralph Waldrop Lake (East)