Leonhardt Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 6, 2025

Leonhardt Dam, also known as Leonhardt Lake, is a private-owned structure located in Shelby, Kentucky.


°F

°F

mph

Wind

%

Humidity

Summary

Built in 1990 by designer Kerry P. Magan, this earth-type dam stands at a height of 34 feet and spans 450 feet in length. With a primary purpose of recreation, it offers a surface area of 4 acres and a storage capacity of 52.5 acre-feet, providing a serene setting for water resource and climate enthusiasts to enjoy.

Despite its low hazard potential, Leonhardt Dam has a poor condition assessment and is in need of maintenance. The dam is regulated by the Kentucky Division of Water, with state permitting, inspection, and enforcement all in place. While the risk assessment for the dam is moderate, with a rating of 3, there are no specific risk management measures currently in place.

Located along the Plum Creek tributary, Leonhardt Dam offers a picturesque spot for outdoor activities and relaxation. However, with its poor condition assessment and moderate risk level, there is a need for ongoing monitoring and potential maintenance to ensure the safety and longevity of this recreational water resource for future generations to enjoy.

Year Completed

1990

Dam Length

450

Dam Height

34

River Or Stream

TRIB-PLUM CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

4

Drainage Area

0.04

Nid Storage

52.5

Hazard Potential

Low

Nid Height

34
       
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.