Pj Mitchell Dam Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 5, 2025
Pj Mitchell Dam, also known as Mitchell Lake, is a private dam located in Mason County, Kentucky.
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Summary
Built in 1966 by the Soil Conservation Service, this earth dam stands at a height of 23 feet and stretches 500 feet in length. Its primary purpose is for recreation, providing a surface area of 9.2 acres and a storage capacity of 150 acre-feet.
Managed by the Kentucky Division of Water, Pj Mitchell Dam is regulated, permitted, inspected, and enforced by state agencies to ensure its safety and compliance with regulations. With a low hazard potential and a moderate risk assessment rating, this dam presents a recreational opportunity for enthusiasts of water resources and climate. While not currently rated for condition assessment, the dam continues to serve its purpose for the local community.
Located on the South Fork Lawrence Creek, Pj Mitchell Dam offers a tranquil setting for outdoor activities and water sports. With its uncontrolled spillway and historic significance in the region, this dam provides a valuable resource for both residents and visitors alike to enjoy nature and the surrounding landscape in Mason County, Kentucky.
Year Completed |
1966 |
Dam Length |
500 |
Dam Height |
23 |
River Or Stream |
SOUTH FORK LAWRENCE CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
9.2 |
Drainage Area |
0.22 |
Nid Storage |
150 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Nid Height |
23 |
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.
Pj Mitchell Dam