Kaec Lake Dam Reservoir Report
Nearby: Franklin Dam Portland City Lake
Last Updated: December 12, 2025
Kaec Lake Dam, located in Simpson County, Kentucky, is a private earth dam completed in 1987 for recreational purposes.
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Summary
The dam stands at a height of 14 feet and stretches 745 feet in length, creating a reservoir with a storage capacity of 260 acre-feet. The dam is situated on Tr-Drakes Creek and is regulated by the Kentucky Division of Water, ensuring proper permitting, inspection, and enforcement protocols are in place to maintain its structural integrity.
Despite being classified as having a low hazard potential, Kaec Lake Dam is assessed to be in fair condition as of its last inspection in July 2016. The dam features an uncontrolled spillway and a moderate risk assessment rating of 3. While emergency action plans and inundation maps have not been prepared, the dam meets regulatory guidelines and is subject to regular inspections every 5 years to monitor its safety and functionality. With its picturesque surroundings and recreational opportunities, Kaec Lake Dam serves as a vital water resource and recreational hub for the local community.
In the realm of water resource and climate enthusiasts, Kaec Lake Dam presents a fascinating case study in private dam ownership and management. From its design by Larry D. McClanahan P.E. to its role in regulating Tr-Drakes Creek flow, this dam exemplifies the intersection of human engineering with natural water systems. The importance of proper maintenance and regulatory oversight is highlighted by the dam's moderate risk assessment, underscoring the critical need for proactive risk management measures to ensure the safety and longevity of water infrastructure in a changing climate.
Year Completed |
1987 |
Dam Length |
745 |
Dam Height |
14 |
River Or Stream |
TR-DRAKES CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
20 |
Drainage Area |
0.28 |
Nid Storage |
260 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Nid Height |
14 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
West Fork Drakes Creek Near Franklin
|
26cfs |
Drakes Creek Near Alvaton
|
154cfs |
Barren River At Bowling Green
|
386cfs |
Dry Creek Near Edenwold
|
1cfs |
Red River At Port Royal
|
214cfs |
Whites Creek Near Bordeaux
|
14cfs |
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.
Kaec Lake Dam