North Fork Nolin River Mps 3 Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 5, 2025
North Fork Nolin River Mps 3, also known as Salem Lake, is a local government-owned dam located in Larue, Kentucky.
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Summary
Built in 1977, this earth dam serves the primary purpose of water supply and has a storage capacity of 3,712 acre-feet with a normal storage level of 1,185 acre-feet. The dam stands at a height of 52 feet and stretches 1,260 feet in length, creating a surface area of 99.3 acres and draining an area of 4.13 square miles along the North Fork Nolin River.
Managed by the Kentucky Division of Water, North Fork Nolin River Mps 3 has a high hazard potential but is currently assessed to be in fair condition as of April 2017. The dam is regulated, permitted, inspected, and enforced by the state, ensuring its safety and compliance with regulations. With an uncontrolled spillway width of 200 feet and a moderate risk assessment rating, the dam presents a crucial piece of infrastructure for water resource management in the region while also posing challenges that require ongoing monitoring and risk management measures.
For water resource and climate enthusiasts, North Fork Nolin River Mps 3 offers a fascinating case study in dam engineering and management. Its location along the North Fork Nolin River, under the jurisdiction of the Louisville District, highlights the intersection of human intervention and natural water systems. As efforts continue to ensure the safety and functionality of this vital water supply structure, the dam serves as a reminder of the intricate balance between harnessing water resources for human needs and safeguarding against potential hazards and environmental impacts.
Year Completed |
1977 |
Dam Length |
1260 |
Dam Height |
52 |
River Or Stream |
NORTH FORK NOLIN RIVER |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
99.3 |
Drainage Area |
4.13 |
Nid Storage |
3712 |
Hazard Potential |
High |
Nid Height |
52 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
North Fork Nolin River At Hodgenville
|
6cfs |
Rolling Fork Near Boston
|
449cfs |
Nolin River At White Mills
|
135cfs |
Beech Fork At Bardstown
|
177cfs |
Bacon Creek Near Priceville
|
23cfs |
Long Lick At Clermont
|
1cfs |
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.
North Fork Nolin River Mps 3
Abraham Lincoln Birthplace
Gates Community Recreational Park
University Drive Park
Freeman Lake
John C Williams Wildlife Management Area