Earl Levy Lake Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Earl Levy Lake Dam, also known as Levy Lake, is a private dam located in Fayette, Kentucky, along West Hickman Creek.


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Summary

Built in 1935, this earth dam stands at a height of 33 feet and has a length of 320 feet, creating a reservoir with a storage capacity of 12.8 acre-feet. The primary purpose of this dam is for recreation, providing a picturesque setting for outdoor enthusiasts to enjoy.

Managed by the Kentucky Division of Water, Earl Levy Lake Dam is regulated, inspected, and enforced by the state to ensure its structural integrity and safety. The dam's spillway type is uncontrolled, with a width of 20 feet, and it has been assessed to be in fair condition as of November 2017. With a moderate risk assessment rating, this significant hazard potential dam continues to provide opportunities for recreational activities while being closely monitored for any necessary risk management measures.

For water resource and climate enthusiasts, Earl Levy Lake Dam offers a fascinating glimpse into the intersection of human-built infrastructure and natural environments. Its history, design, and ongoing management showcase the importance of balancing the benefits of water resource development for recreation with the need for careful oversight and maintenance to mitigate potential hazards. As a part of the Louisville District, this dam exemplifies the complexities and responsibilities inherent in managing water resources in a changing climate.

Year Completed

1935

Dam Length

320

Dam Height

33

River Or Stream

WEST HICKMAN CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

1.8

Drainage Area

0.02

Nid Storage

12.8

Hazard Potential

Significant

Nid Height

33
       
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.