Paradise Fossil Plant - Red Water Pond 1 Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 6, 2025
Paradise Fossil Plant - Red Water Pond 1 is a Federal-owned dam located in Muhlenberg, Kentucky, designed by TVA and regulated by the KY Division of Water.
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Summary
Completed in 1985, this Earth-type dam stands at a height of 28 feet with a hydraulic height matching at 28 feet as well. It serves a primary purpose categorized as 'Other', with a storage capacity of 34 acre-feet and a surface area of 2 acres.
Situated along the Green River - Offstream, this dam has a low hazard potential and a moderate risk assessment level. Despite having a spillway type classified as 'Uncontrolled' with a width of 6 feet, the overall condition assessment is currently unavailable. The dam's last inspection took place in January 2020, and its inspection frequency is set at 3. With its operational oversight falling under the Tennessee Valley Authority, this structure presents a significant interest for water resource and climate enthusiasts due to its design, location, and associated environmental impact.
For those fascinated by water infrastructure and climate resilience, Paradise Fossil Plant - Red Water Pond 1 offers a unique case study in dam construction and management. As a key element in the local water system, its role in flood control and water storage is essential. The moderate risk assessment underscores the importance of ongoing monitoring and maintenance to ensure the safety and effectiveness of this Earth-type dam. With its historical significance dating back to the 1980s and its continued operation under the Tennessee Valley Authority, this dam provides a rich opportunity for further exploration and study in the realm of water resource management and climate adaptation.
Year Completed |
1985 |
Dam Length |
166 |
Dam Height |
28 |
River Or Stream |
GREEN RIVER - OFFSTREAM |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
2 |
Hydraulic Height |
28 |
Drainage Area |
0.01 |
Nid Storage |
34 |
Structural Height |
28 |
Outlet Gates |
None |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Soil |
Nid Height |
28 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Green River At Paradise
|
2680cfs |
Pond River Near Apex
|
57cfs |
Caney Creek Near Horse Branch
|
47cfs |
Green River At Lock 2 At Calhoun
|
3340cfs |
South Fork Panther Creek Near Whitesville
|
25cfs |
Barren River At Bowling Green
|
464cfs |
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.
Paradise Fossil Plant - Red Water Pond 1