Emile Napier Lake Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Emile Napier Lake Dam, also known as Napier Lake, is a privately owned structure located in Lee County, Kentucky.


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Summary

Completed in 1971, this Earth-type dam stands at a height of 28 feet and spans a length of 275 feet, creating a surface area of 3.7 acres and a storage capacity of 34 acre-feet. Situated on Silver Creek, the primary purpose of the dam is for recreation, attracting water resource and climate enthusiasts alike to its picturesque setting.

Maintained and regulated by the Kentucky Division of Water, Emile Napier Lake Dam has a significant hazard potential with a fair condition assessment as of December 2016. The spillway, which is uncontrolled, has a width of 15 feet. Despite the moderate risk level associated with the dam, it continues to be a popular spot for outdoor activities, offering a serene environment for visitors to enjoy. With its beautiful surroundings and historical significance, Emile Napier Lake Dam remains a key feature in the region's water resource management and conservation efforts.

As a focal point for both recreation and water management, Emile Napier Lake Dam provides a valuable resource for the community while also serving as a reminder of the importance of maintaining and monitoring dam infrastructure. With its rich history and scenic beauty, this dam stands as a testament to the intersection of human ingenuity and environmental stewardship in the face of changing climates and water resource challenges.

Year Completed

1971

Dam Length

275

Dam Height

28

River Or Stream

SILVER CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

3.7

Drainage Area

0.03

Nid Storage

34

Hazard Potential

Significant

Nid Height

28
       
Seasonal Comparison

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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.