Sun Production Dam Reservoir Report
Nearby: Wiser Oil Res No 3 Hydro Flo
Last Updated: February 23, 2026
Sun Production Dam, also known as Sun Production Lake, is a privately owned structure located in Powell, Kentucky.
Summary
This earth dam, standing at 44 feet tall and spanning 360 feet in length, was designed by Napier Engineering & Surveying Co. The dam holds a storage capacity of 53.5 acre-feet and covers a surface area of 3.7 acres, with a drainage area of 0.11 square miles. Positioned on the South Fork Red River, this dam is regulated by the Kentucky Division of Water and is subject to state permitting, inspection, and enforcement.
Despite its low hazard potential, Sun Production Dam presents a moderate risk level, with a risk assessment rating of 3. The dam is equipped with an uncontrolled spillway and has not undergone recent modifications or condition assessments. The last inspection conducted on the dam was in November 2013, with a scheduled inspection frequency of 5 years. While the Emergency Action Plan status and risk management measures for the dam remain unspecified, the structure is noted to meet regulatory guidelines and is not operated by the US Army Corps of Engineers.
Water resource and climate enthusiasts interested in the Sun Production Dam will find it to be a unique private entity contributing to the water infrastructure of Kentucky. With its modest storage capacity and surface area, the dam serves as a reservoir on the South Fork Red River, enhancing water management in the region. While the dam's risk level is moderate, its low hazard potential indicates a level of safety for nearby communities and ecosystems. Continued monitoring and assessment of Sun Production Dam will be essential to ensure its ongoing functionality and safety in the face of changing environmental conditions.
°F
°F
mph
Wind
%
Humidity
15-Day Weather Outlook
Dam Length |
360 |
Dam Height |
44 |
River Or Stream |
SOUTH FORK RED RIVER |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
3.7 |
Drainage Area |
0.11 |
Nid Storage |
53.5 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Nid Height |
44 |
Seasonal Comparison
5-Day Hourly Forecast Detail
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Kentucky River At Lock 14 At Heidelberg
|
6810cfs |
Kentucky River At Lock 12 Near Irvine
|
0cfs |
Middle Fork Kentucky River At Tallega
|
1060cfs |
Red River Near Hazel Green
|
218cfs |
Red River At Clay City
|
1040cfs |
Sturgeon Creek At Cressmont
|
180cfs |
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.
Area Campgrounds
| Location | Reservations | Toilets |
|---|---|---|
Natural Bridge State Park
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Koomer Ridge Rec Area
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Koomer Ridge Campground
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Tunnel Ridge Road
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Callies
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Red River Gorge Geological Area
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Sun Production Dam
Natural Bridge Road Powell County