James C Harris Dam Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 6, 2025
James C Harris Dam, also known as Stanford Reservoir (New), is a vital water supply infrastructure located in Stanford, Kentucky.
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Summary
The dam, completed in 1989, stands at a height of 72 feet and stretches 640 feet in length, serving the primary purpose of providing water to the surrounding community. With a storage capacity of 1432.35 acre-feet and a normal storage level of 807 acre-feet, the dam plays a crucial role in ensuring water availability for residents and agricultural needs in the area.
Managed by the local government and regulated by the Kentucky Division of Water, James C Harris Dam is classified as an earth dam with an uncontrolled spillway type. The dam's condition assessment in 2017 rated it as fair, with a high hazard potential and moderate risk level. Despite the risk, the dam continues to be maintained and inspected regularly, with the last inspection conducted in June 2017. With its strategic location on the Dix River, the dam contributes to the overall water resource management and climate resilience efforts in the region.
In terms of design, the dam was created by MAYES, SUDDERTH & ETHEREDGE LEXINGTON KY., showcasing expertise and innovation in water infrastructure engineering. Along with its functional role in water supply, James C Harris Dam also contributes to the environmental and ecological balance of the area, providing essential water resources for the surrounding ecosystem. As climate change continues to impact water availability and quality, the presence of well-maintained dams like James C Harris Dam becomes increasingly crucial for sustainable water management and adaptation to changing climate conditions.
Year Completed |
1989 |
Dam Length |
640 |
Dam Height |
72 |
River Or Stream |
DIX RIVER |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
38 |
Drainage Area |
1.19 |
Nid Storage |
1432.35 |
Hazard Potential |
High |
Nid Height |
72 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Green River Near Mckinney
|
5cfs |
Dix River Near Danville
|
291cfs |
Kentucky River At Lock 8 Near Camp Nelson
|
3830cfs |
Buck Creek Near Shopville
|
90cfs |
Kentucky River At Lock 7 At Highbridge
|
5960cfs |
Rockcastle River At Billows
|
586cfs |
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.
James C Harris Dam
Cedar Creek Lake Wildlife Management Area
Isaac Shelby Cemetery
Dix River Wildlife Management Area