Powell Oil Company Lake Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 13, 2025
Powell Oil Company Lake, located in Mt.
°F
°F
mph
Wind
%
Humidity
Summary
Carmel-Vicinity, Kentucky, is a private reservoir regulated by the Kentucky Division of Water. Built in 1960, this Earth type dam stands at 39 feet high and spans 535 feet, providing a storage capacity of 54.1 acre-feet. Despite its low hazard potential, the dam's condition assessment is marked as poor, raising concerns about its structural integrity and long-term viability.
The lake's primary purpose and design suggest that it serves as a vital water resource in the region, with a surface area of 4.6 acres and a drainage area of 0.16 square miles. However, its current risk assessment is moderate, indicating the need for proactive risk management measures to ensure the safety of surrounding communities and the environment. With a history of state regulation, inspection, and enforcement, it is crucial for stakeholders to address the dam's poor condition and mitigate potential risks before they escalate.
Given its location near the TR-West Fork Pond River, Powell Oil Company Lake plays a significant role in water resource management in Christian County, Kentucky. As climate change continues to impact water availability and quality, it is imperative for the owners and regulatory agencies to prioritize the dam's maintenance and rehabilitation efforts to safeguard this essential asset for future generations.
Year Completed |
1960 |
Dam Length |
535 |
Dam Height |
39 |
River Or Stream |
TR-WEST FORK POND RIVER |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
4.6 |
Drainage Area |
0.16 |
Nid Storage |
54.1 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Nid Height |
39 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Pond River Near Apex
|
39cfs |
Tradewater River At Olney
|
26cfs |
Green River At Paradise
|
1890cfs |
Little River Near Cadiz
|
485cfs |
Green River At Lock 2 At Calhoun
|
2370cfs |
Red River At Port Royal
|
195cfs |
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.
Powell Oil Company Lake