Powers Branch Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 13, 2025
Powers Branch in Whitley, Kentucky, is a privately owned dam built by the Gatlin Coal Company in 1985 for recreational purposes.
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Summary
The dam stands at a height of 23 feet and spans 300 feet, with a storage capacity of 89 acre-feet and a surface area of 6.2 acres. Situated on the tributary of Poplar Creek, Powers Branch is regulated by the Kentucky Division of Water, with state permitting, inspection, and enforcement in place to ensure its safety and compliance with regulations.
Despite being classified as having a low hazard potential, Powers Branch poses a moderate risk due to its age and lack of recent condition assessments. The dam features an uncontrolled spillway and has not been rated for its current condition. The last inspection was conducted in 2009, with a recommended inspection frequency of every 5 years. While an Emergency Action Plan (EAP) has not been prepared or updated, the dam meets regulatory guidelines and is closely monitored for any potential risks or hazards. As a recreational structure, Powers Branch serves as both a source of enjoyment for visitors and a reminder of the importance of maintaining and monitoring our water resources in the face of changing climate conditions.
Year Completed |
1985 |
Dam Length |
300 |
Dam Height |
23 |
River Or Stream |
TRIB-POPLAR CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
6.2 |
Drainage Area |
0.51 |
Nid Storage |
89 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Nid Height |
23 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Cumberland River At Williamsburg
|
1200cfs |
Clear Fork At Saxton
|
206cfs |
Lynn Camp Creek At Corbin
|
33cfs |
Cumberland River At Cumberland Falls
|
1410cfs |
Powell River Near Arthur
|
695cfs |
Goose Creek At Manchester
|
81cfs |
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.
Powers Branch