Cowden Lake Dam Reservoir Report
Last Updated: February 24, 2026
Located in Garrard County, Kentucky, Cowden Lake Dam, also known as Hidden Valley, was built in 1984 by the Soil Conservation Service for recreational purposes.
Summary
This private dam is regulated by the Kentucky Division of Water and is inspected regularly to ensure compliance with state regulations. Standing at a height of 32 feet and stretching 335 feet in length, the dam has a storage capacity of 110 acre-feet and covers a surface area of 8 acres.
Despite its low hazard potential, Cowden Lake Dam has a moderate risk assessment of 3, indicating a need for risk management measures. The dam features an uncontrolled spillway and is situated on the West Fork of Sugar Creek. Although the dam's condition is currently not rated, it is important for water resource and climate enthusiasts to monitor its status and emergency preparedness efforts in case of any unforeseen events. With its picturesque location and recreational purpose, Cowden Lake Dam serves as a vital component of the local ecosystem and water management infrastructure in the area.
°F
°F
mph
Wind
%
Humidity
15-Day Weather Outlook
Year Completed |
1984 |
Dam Length |
335 |
Dam Height |
32 |
River Or Stream |
TR-WEST FORK SUGAR CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
8 |
Drainage Area |
0.12 |
Nid Storage |
110 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Nid Height |
32 |
Seasonal Comparison
5-Day Hourly Forecast Detail
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Dix River Near Danville
|
561cfs |
Kentucky River At Lock 8 Near Camp Nelson
|
10000cfs |
Kentucky River At Lock 7 At Highbridge
|
13300cfs |
Kentucky River At Lock 9 At Valley View
|
9620cfs |
Green River Near Mckinney
|
25cfs |
Kentucky River At Lock 6 Near Salvisa
|
13400cfs |
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.
Cowden Lake Dam