Ralph Waldrop Lake Dam (West) Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 14, 2025
Ralph Waldrop Lake Dam (West) is a privately owned structure located in Mayfield, Kentucky, along Red Duck Creek.
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Summary
Built in 1974, this earth dam stands at 22 feet tall and stretches 450 feet in length, with a primary purpose of providing recreational opportunities. The dam has a storage capacity of 73.6 acre-feet and covers a surface area of 9.1 acres, making it a popular destination for water resource and climate enthusiasts seeking outdoor activities.
Despite its scenic beauty, Ralph Waldrop Lake Dam (West) poses a high hazard potential with a poor condition assessment as of May 2018. The dam is regulated by the Kentucky Division of Water and undergoes regular inspections, although its maintenance and emergency preparedness measures may need improvement to mitigate risks. With a moderate risk assessment score of 3, there is a call for enhanced risk management measures to ensure the safety and sustainability of this recreational water resource for future generations.
As a site of both natural beauty and potential hazards, Ralph Waldrop Lake Dam (West) serves as a reminder of the importance of responsible water resource management and climate resilience efforts. By addressing the identified risks and implementing proper maintenance and emergency protocols, this dam can continue to provide recreational opportunities while safeguarding the surrounding environment and community from potential water-related disasters. For water resource and climate enthusiasts, this location offers a compelling case study in balancing the benefits and risks associated with essential infrastructure in a changing climate.
Year Completed |
1974 |
Dam Length |
450 |
Dam Height |
22 |
River Or Stream |
RED DUCK CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
9.1 |
Drainage Area |
0.08 |
Nid Storage |
73.6 |
Hazard Potential |
High |
Nid Height |
22 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Bayou De Chien Near Clinton
|
27cfs |
Massac Creek Near Paducah
|
3cfs |
Clarks River At Almo
|
36cfs |
Clarks River At Murray
|
15cfs |
North Fork Obion River Near Martin
|
198cfs |
Ohio River At Metropolis
|
444000cfs |
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.
Ralph Waldrop Lake Dam (West)