Borders Lake Dam Reservoir Report
Nearby: S.E. Austin Lake Dam Bob S Dam
Last Updated: December 13, 2025
Borders Lake Dam, located in Patrick, Kentucky, is a privately owned structure along the Levisa Fork river.
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Summary
Built in 1971 by the Soil Conservation Service, this earth dam stands at a height of 38 feet and has a length of 210 feet, providing a storage capacity of 26.2 acre-feet for recreational purposes. Despite being state-regulated and inspected by the Kentucky Division of Water, the dam has a low hazard potential and is deemed to be in satisfactory condition as of the last assessment in May 2018.
With its uncontrolled spillway and moderate risk assessment rating, Borders Lake Dam offers a serene setting for water resource and climate enthusiasts to appreciate the surrounding natural beauty. Its location within Lawrence County, Kentucky, not only provides a recreational escape but also serves as a vital structure for water management and conservation efforts in the area. The dam's history, design, and maintenance reflect a commitment to preserving both the environment and the community's recreational interests.
As a part of the Louisville District and under the ownership of a private entity, Borders Lake Dam serves as a testament to responsible dam construction and management practices. While its primary purpose is recreation, the dam's impact extends beyond leisure activities, contributing to water resource sustainability and climate resilience. Visitors to this picturesque site can enjoy the tranquil waters of Borders Lake while appreciating the engineering feat and environmental stewardship embodied by this essential structure.
Year Completed |
1971 |
Dam Length |
210 |
Dam Height |
38 |
River Or Stream |
LEVISA FORK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
1.82 |
Drainage Area |
0.13 |
Nid Storage |
26.2 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Nid Height |
38 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Levisa Fork At Paintsville
|
1670cfs |
Tug Fork At Kermit
|
542cfs |
East Fork Twelvepole Creek Near Dunlow
|
25cfs |
Licking River Below Mason Fork Nr Salyersville
|
42cfs |
Johns Creek Near Meta
|
22cfs |
Tug Fork At Williamson
|
460cfs |
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.
Borders Lake Dam