Breckridge Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Located in Breckinridge, Kentucky, Breckridge (also known as Breckridge Lake) is a private reservoir with a primary purpose of recreation.


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Summary

Built in 1965 by the Soil Conservation Service, this earth dam stands at a height of 21 feet and spans 341 feet in length. With a storage capacity of 160 acre-feet, the reservoir covers a surface area of 12.9 acres and drains an area of 0.79 square miles.

Despite its recreational appeal, Breckridge poses a significant hazard potential with a poor condition assessment as of December 2017. The dam's inspection frequency is set at every 3 years, with the last assessment revealing a moderate risk level. The dam's spillway, which is uncontrolled and 20 feet wide, adds to its risk profile. The Kentucky Division of Water is responsible for regulating, inspecting, and enforcing safety measures at Breckridge.

For water resource and climate enthusiasts, Breckridge presents an intriguing case study in dam safety and risk management. The reservoir's outdated infrastructure and poor condition assessment highlight the importance of regular inspections and maintenance to prevent potential disasters. As climate change continues to impact water resources, understanding the vulnerabilities of structures like Breckridge is crucial for ensuring the safety of communities and ecosystems downstream.

Year Completed

1965

Dam Length

341

Dam Height

21

River Or Stream

TR-HARDINS CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

12.9

Drainage Area

0.79

Nid Storage

160

Hazard Potential

Significant

Nid Height

21
       
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.