Swan Lake Dam Reservoir Report
Nearby: Otter Lake Dam Otter Lake Dam 3
Last Updated: December 13, 2025
Swan Lake Dam, located in Hopkins County, Kentucky, was completed in 1974 for the primary purpose of recreation.
°F
°F
mph
Wind
%
Humidity
Summary
The earth dam stands at a height of 35 feet and spans 450 feet in length, creating a reservoir with a storage capacity of 69 acre-feet. The dam is regulated by the Kentucky Division of Water and is subject to regular inspections, with the last assessment conducted in March 2018, determining its condition as fair with a low hazard potential.
Situated on Otter Creek, Swan Lake Dam plays a crucial role in maintaining the water resources of the area, with a drainage area of 0.02 square miles and a surface area of 3.9 acres. In the event of overflow, the dam is equipped with an uncontrolled spillway. While the risk assessment categorizes the dam as moderate, measures for risk management and emergency preparedness are not explicitly outlined. The dam is privately owned and serves as a popular spot for recreational activities, offering a serene setting for visitors to enjoy the surrounding natural beauty.
Overall, Swan Lake Dam stands as a testament to the intersection of water resource management and recreational opportunities in Kentucky. With its vital role in providing recreation and maintaining water resources, the dam serves as a focal point for both environmental enthusiasts and climate-conscious individuals seeking to understand the significance of infrastructure in a changing climate landscape.
Year Completed |
1974 |
Dam Length |
450 |
Dam Height |
35 |
River Or Stream |
OTTER CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
3.9 |
Drainage Area |
0.02 |
Nid Storage |
69 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Nid Height |
35 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Green River At Lock 2 At Calhoun
|
2760cfs |
Tradewater River At Olney
|
30cfs |
Pond River Near Apex
|
41cfs |
Green River At Paradise
|
2210cfs |
South Fork Panther Creek Near Whitesville
|
25cfs |
Ohio River At Old Shawneetown
|
259000cfs |
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.
Swan Lake Dam