Donaldson Frs No 1a Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 8, 2025
Donaldson FRS No 1a, also known as Donaldson Creek No 1a, is a flood risk reduction structure located in Caldwell, Kentucky.
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Summary
Built in 1986 by the Soil Conservation Service, USDA NRCS, this earth dam stands at a height of 37 feet and spans 400 feet in length. It serves the primary purpose of flood risk reduction along the tributary of Donaldson Creek, with a storage capacity of 3,610 acre-feet and a drainage area of 10.05 square miles.
Managed by the Kentucky Division of Water, Donaldson FRS No 1a has a low hazard potential and a moderate risk assessment rating of 3. Despite being labeled as "Not Rated" in terms of condition assessment, the dam is regularly inspected every five years to ensure its structural integrity and operational effectiveness. With a normal storage capacity of 251.8 acre-feet and a surface area of 71.8 acres, this structure plays a crucial role in mitigating flood risks in the region.
While there are no associated structures or outlet gates, Donaldson FRS No 1a operates with an uncontrolled spillway type to manage excess water flow. The dam is not regulated by federal agencies but falls under state jurisdiction, with the Kentucky Division of Water overseeing permitting, inspection, and enforcement activities. Overall, Donaldson FRS No 1a stands as a vital infrastructure for flood control and water resource management in Caldwell County, Kentucky.
Year Completed |
1986 |
Dam Length |
400 |
Dam Height |
37 |
River Or Stream |
TRIB-DONALDSON CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
71.8 |
Drainage Area |
10.05 |
Nid Storage |
3610 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Nid Height |
37 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Tradewater River At Olney
|
36cfs |
Ohio River At Old Shawneetown
|
259000cfs |
Little River Near Cadiz
|
485cfs |
Pond River Near Apex
|
52cfs |
Lusk Creek Near Eddyville
|
5cfs |
Green River At Lock 2 At Calhoun
|
3540cfs |
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.
Donaldson Frs No 1a