Richardson Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Richardson Dam, located in Doylesville, Kentucky, is a privately owned structure primarily used for recreational purposes.


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Summary

Completed in 1979, this earth dam stands at a height of 29 feet and has a length of 380 feet. It has a storage capacity of 102 acre-feet, with a normal storage level of 65 acre-feet. The dam is situated on Tr-Clear Creek and is managed by the USDA NRCS.

Despite its low hazard potential, Richardson Dam poses a moderate risk (rated 3 out of 5) and is currently not available for condition assessment. The dam features an uncontrolled spillway and outlet gates. While it has not been inspected recently, the risk management measures for the dam are not specified. With a drainage area of 0.17 square miles and a maximum discharge of 113 cubic feet per second, Richardson Dam serves as a crucial water resource in the region.

Overall, Richardson Dam is an important structure in the water resource system of Madison County, Kentucky. Despite its primary purpose for recreation, the dam's risk assessment indicates a moderate level of risk. With its historical significance dating back to 1979, the dam continues to play a key role in managing water flow and storage in the area. Climate and water enthusiasts would find Richardson Dam an intriguing subject for further study and monitoring.

Year Completed

1979

Dam Length

380

Dam Height

29

River Or Stream

Tr- Clear Creek

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Drainage Area

0.17

Nid Storage

102

Outlet Gates

Uncontrolled

Hazard Potential

Low

Foundations

Rock, Soil

Nid Height

29
       
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.