North Fork Nolin River Mps 15 Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 5, 2025
North Fork Nolin River Mps 15, also known as McDougal Lake, is a local government-owned earth dam located in Hodgenville, Kentucky.
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Summary
Managed by the USDA NRCS, this dam was completed in 1986 for recreational purposes along the North Fork Nolin River. With a height of 51 feet and a length of 1900 feet, the dam has a storage capacity of 7422 acre-feet, providing a surface area of 91 acres for recreational activities.
The dam is regulated by the Kentucky Division of Water and undergoes regular inspections, with the last assessment in April 2017 rating its condition as fair. Despite being classified as having a high hazard potential, the risk assessment for North Fork Nolin River Mps 15 is moderate. The spillway, which is uncontrolled and 200 feet wide, helps manage water levels during periods of high discharge. Overall, this dam serves as an important recreational resource for the community while also fulfilling its primary purpose of flood control along the North Fork Nolin River.
Water resource and climate enthusiasts will appreciate the intricate details of North Fork Nolin River Mps 15, from its design and construction by the Natural Resources Conservation Service to its impact on the surrounding Larue County environment. With a drainage area of 9.7 square miles and a normal storage capacity of 666.9 acre-feet, this dam plays a crucial role in managing water flow and providing recreational opportunities for residents and visitors alike. As climate change continues to affect water resources, understanding the maintenance and regulation of dams like North Fork Nolin River Mps 15 becomes increasingly important for sustainable water management practices.
Year Completed |
1986 |
Dam Length |
1900 |
Dam Height |
51 |
River Or Stream |
NORTH FORK NOLIN RIVER |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
91 |
Drainage Area |
9.7 |
Nid Storage |
7422 |
Hazard Potential |
High |
Nid Height |
51 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
North Fork Nolin River At Hodgenville
|
6cfs |
Rolling Fork Near Boston
|
449cfs |
Nolin River At White Mills
|
135cfs |
Beech Fork At Bardstown
|
177cfs |
Bacon Creek Near Priceville
|
23cfs |
Green River At Munfordville
|
1230cfs |
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.
North Fork Nolin River Mps 15