Whitaker Lake Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 6, 2025

Whitaker Lake Dam, located in Owensboro, Kentucky, is a private-owned structure built in 1940 primarily for recreation purposes.


°F

°F

mph

Wind

%

Humidity

Summary

The dam, standing at a height of 20 feet and spanning 450 feet in length, impounds Pup Creek to create a surface area of 7.68 acres and a storage capacity of 52 acre-feet. Despite its low hazard potential, the dam is regulated by the Kentucky Division of Water, with state permitting, inspection, and enforcement in place to ensure its safety and compliance with regulations.

With a moderate risk assessment rating of 3, Whitaker Lake Dam is subject to regular inspections every 5 years, with the last assessment conducted in March 2017. The dam's spillway is uncontrolled, and it is situated within the Louisville District of the US Army Corps of Engineers. The surrounding area boasts a rich drainage area of 0.16 square miles, providing ample recreational opportunities for water resource and climate enthusiasts to explore and enjoy the scenic beauty of the Daviess County landscape.

As a key feature in the local ecosystem, Whitaker Lake Dam serves as a vital recreational hub while also contributing to the overall water management strategies in the region. Its historical significance, combined with its structural integrity and regulatory oversight, make it a noteworthy site for those interested in both the environmental and engineering aspects of water resource management and climate resilience.

Year Completed

1940

Dam Length

450

Dam Height

20

River Or Stream

PUP CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

7.68

Drainage Area

0.16

Nid Storage

52

Hazard Potential

Low

Nid Height

20
       
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.