Hollythicket Lake Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Hollythicket Lake Dam, located in Perry County, Kentucky, was completed in 1957 and serves primarily for recreational purposes.


°F

°F

mph

Wind

%

Humidity

Summary

With a dam height of 31 feet and a length of 220 feet, this earth dam holds back the waters of Hollythicket Branch to create a surface area of 2.75 acres and a storage capacity of 100 acre-feet. While the dam is privately owned, it is regulated by the Kentucky Division of Water and undergoes regular inspections to ensure its structural integrity.

Despite being classified as having a low hazard potential, the condition assessment of Hollythicket Lake Dam is rated as fair. The dam features an uncontrolled spillway and has a moderate risk assessment score of 3. Although no emergency action plan (EAP) has been prepared to date, the dam is subject to a five-year inspection frequency to monitor its safety. The surrounding area is at a moderate risk level, emphasizing the importance of continued monitoring and maintenance to ensure the safety of the dam and downstream communities.

In addition to its recreational function, Hollythicket Lake Dam plays a crucial role in water resource management in the region, providing storage and flood control benefits. As a part of the Louisville District, the dam is a significant feature in the local landscape, contributing to the overall water management efforts in the area. With its historical significance and ongoing regulatory oversight, Hollythicket Lake Dam stands as a testament to the importance of sustainable water resource management and climate resilience in the face of changing environmental conditions.

Year Completed

1957

Dam Length

220

Dam Height

31

River Or Stream

HOLLYTHICKET BRANCH

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

2.75

Drainage Area

0.51

Nid Storage

100

Hazard Potential

Low

Nid Height

31
       
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.