Michael Moran Flood Lake Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 6, 2025

Michael Moran Flood Lake Dam, located in Daviess County, Kentucky, is a privately owned structure with a rich history dating back to its completion in 1946.


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Summary

Designed by Fred Morgan, this earth-type dam stands at a height of 23 feet and stretches 525 feet in length, creating a reservoir with a normal storage capacity of 102 acre-feet. Situated on the South Fork Panther Creek, this dam serves a primary purpose that goes beyond traditional flood control measures.

Despite its low hazard potential, Michael Moran Flood Lake Dam is regulated by the Kentucky Division of Water, ensuring that it meets all state permitting, inspection, and enforcement requirements. The dam's risk assessment is moderate, and while its condition is currently not rated, its last inspection took place in June 2013. With no emergency action plan in place, the dam continues to be a focal point for water resource and climate enthusiasts interested in the management and safety of such critical infrastructure.

Overall, the Michael Moran Flood Lake Dam presents a fascinating case study for those passionate about water resources and climate resilience. As part of the Louisville District, the dam is a testament to the intricate balance between human development and environmental protection. Its unique design, historical significance, and state-regulated status make it a compelling subject for further exploration and analysis in the field of water resource management and climate adaptation.

Year Completed

1946

Dam Length

525

Dam Height

23

River Or Stream

S.FORK PANTHER CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

8

Drainage Area

0.1

Nid Storage

102

Hazard Potential

Low

Nid Height

23
       
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.