Beech Fork Branch Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Beech Fork Branch Dam, also known as Stanton Reservoir (New), is a vital water supply structure located on the Red River in Powell, Kentucky.


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Summary

Owned by the local government and regulated by the KY Division of Water, this earth dam stands at a height of 51 feet and was completed in 1988. With a normal storage capacity of 1117.6 acre-feet and a surface area of 61.1 acres, Beech Fork Branch Dam plays a crucial role in providing water for the surrounding area.

Despite its satisfactory condition assessment, Beech Fork Branch Dam has a high hazard potential, emphasizing the importance of regular inspections and maintenance. The dam features an uncontrolled spillway with a width of 110 feet, highlighting its design to manage potential excess water flow. With its moderate risk assessment rating, the dam is equipped with emergency action plans to ensure public safety in the event of a catastrophe.

Located within the Huntington District of the US Army Corps of Engineers, Beech Fork Branch Dam serves as a significant water resource infrastructure vital for the community's water supply needs. With its strategic location and design features, this dam stands as a testament to effective water management practices in the face of changing climate conditions.

Year Completed

1988

Dam Height

51

River Or Stream

RED RIVER

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

61.1

Drainage Area

1.9

Nid Storage

1949

Hazard Potential

High

Nid Height

51
       
Seasonal Comparison

Weather Forecast

Dam Data Reference

Condition Assessment

Satisfactory
No 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

High
Dams 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.