Jim Saylor Dam Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 5, 2025
Jim Saylor Dam, also known as Saylor Lake, is a private-owned structure located in Shelby, Kentucky, near the city of Taylorsville.
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Summary
Built in 1977 by the Soil Conservation Service, this earth dam stands at 28 feet in height and spans 287 feet in length. The dam's primary purpose is for recreation, offering a storage capacity of 25.9 acre-feet and a surface area of 1.9 acres. Despite its low hazard potential, the dam is regulated by the Kentucky Division of Water and undergoes regular inspections.
Situated on TR-Beech Creek, Jim Saylor Dam is part of the Louisville District and falls under the jurisdiction of the state of Kentucky. The dam features an uncontrolled spillway type and has not been modified since its completion. While its condition is currently not rated, the dam is subject to a moderate risk assessment level of 3. With a history of state permitting, inspection, and enforcement, Jim Saylor Dam remains a significant water resource for the surrounding area, offering recreational opportunities while ensuring the safety of its operations.
Overall, Jim Saylor Dam serves as a vital water management structure in Kentucky, contributing to the region's water storage and recreational needs. With its scenic location and state-regulated oversight, the dam provides a balance between water resource utilization and environmental protection. As a part of the local landscape, Jim Saylor Dam stands as a testament to responsible dam construction and management, embodying the importance of sustainable water resource practices in the face of changing climate conditions.
Year Completed |
1977 |
Dam Length |
287 |
Dam Height |
28 |
River Or Stream |
TR-BEECH CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
1.9 |
Drainage Area |
0.03 |
Nid Storage |
25.9 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Nid Height |
28 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Salt River At Glensboro
|
70cfs |
Kentucky River At Lock 4 At Frankfort
|
5280cfs |
Kentucky River At Lock 5 Near Tyrone
|
5480cfs |
Brashears Creek At Taylorsville
|
144cfs |
Kentucky River At Lock 6 Near Salvisa
|
5420cfs |
Elkhorn Creek Near Frankfort
|
318cfs |
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.
Jim Saylor Dam