Deer Lake No 1 (Upper) Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 7, 2025
Deer Lake No 1 (Upper) is a privately owned dam located in Sadieville, Kentucky, along the tributary of Eagle Creek.
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Summary
Built in 1988 by Thoroughbred Engineering Inc., this earth dam stands at 55 feet high and stretches 580 feet in length, creating a reservoir with a storage capacity of 1140 acre-feet and a surface area of 53.3 acres. The primary purpose of this dam is for recreation, providing a tranquil setting for activities such as fishing, boating, and wildlife observation.
Managed by the Kentucky Division of Water, Deer Lake No 1 (Upper) is regulated and inspected regularly to ensure its safety and functionality. With a significant hazard potential but a satisfactory condition assessment as of October 2017, this dam poses moderate risk and is subject to a risk assessment rating of 3. Despite its uncontrolled spillway type and the absence of locks and gates, the dam has been deemed structurally sound and meets regulatory guidelines, making it a popular destination for water resource and climate enthusiasts seeking outdoor recreational opportunities in Scott County, Kentucky.
Overall, Deer Lake No 1 (Upper) serves as a vital water resource for the local community, offering both recreational benefits and essential water storage capacity. With its picturesque location and regulatory oversight, this dam provides a safe and enjoyable environment for visitors to appreciate the natural beauty of Kentucky while also highlighting the importance of responsible water management in the face of changing climate conditions.
Year Completed |
1988 |
Dam Length |
580 |
Dam Height |
55 |
River Or Stream |
TRIB-EAGLE CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
53.3 |
Drainage Area |
0.54 |
Nid Storage |
1140 |
Hazard Potential |
Significant |
Nid Height |
55 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
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.
Deer Lake No 1 (Upper)