Berea College (Walnut Meadow) Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Berea College (Walnut Meadow) is a picturesque recreational area located in Paint Lick, Kentucky, along the Walnut Meadow Branch.


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Summary

Built in 1966, this earth dam stands at 25 feet high and stretches 425 feet in length, creating a serene lake covering 6 acres with a storage capacity of 56.5 acre-feet. The dam is regulated and inspected by the Kentucky Division of Water to ensure its safety and compliance with state standards.

The dam at Berea College (Walnut Meadow) serves primarily for recreation, offering a tranquil spot for visitors to enjoy water activities and outdoor leisure. The spillway type is uncontrolled, with a width of 23 feet, and the overall condition assessment of the dam is rated as fair, with a significant hazard potential. Despite this, the risk assessment is moderate, indicating a level of caution in managing any potential risks associated with the dam.

With its beautiful surroundings and recreational opportunities, Berea College (Walnut Meadow) is a beloved destination for water resource and climate enthusiasts looking to appreciate the natural beauty of Kentucky. The dam's historical significance and ongoing maintenance ensure a safe and enjoyable experience for all who visit this charming spot in Madison County.

Year Completed

1966

Dam Length

425

Dam Height

25

River Or Stream

WALNUT MEADOW BRANCH

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

6

Drainage Area

0.09

Nid Storage

56.5

Hazard Potential

Significant

Nid Height

25
       
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.