Ensign Bickford Dam Reservoir Report
Nearby: Bryan Lake Dam Tk Jessup Lake Dam
Last Updated: December 13, 2025
Ensign Bickford Dam, also known as Ensign Bickford Lake, is a private-owned structure located in Muhlenberg, Kentucky, along the Thompson Creek tributary.
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Summary
Completed in 1995, this Earth-type dam serves the primary purpose of irrigation, with a storage capacity of 118.2 acre-feet and a normal storage level of 105 acre-feet. The dam stands at a height of 19 feet and spans 550 feet in length, creating a surface area of 12.8 acres within its drainage area of 0.08 square miles.
Despite being regulated and inspected by the Kentucky Division of Water, the dam's condition assessment is rated as poor, with a low hazard potential and moderate risk level. The last inspection was conducted in 2008, with an inspection frequency of 5 years. The dam features an uncontrolled spillway type and lacks associated structures such as outlet gates. While the risk assessment indicates a moderate level of risk, the dam's emergency action plan status, inundation maps, and risk management measures are not readily available, suggesting a need for updated safety protocols and monitoring systems to ensure the dam's integrity and public safety.
Ensign Bickford Dam, nestled in the scenic Kentucky landscape, presents a unique blend of historical significance and contemporary water resource management challenges. With its rich irrigation history and modern engineering design, the dam beckons water resource and climate enthusiasts to explore its intricate features and the complex interplay between human intervention and natural forces. As efforts to enhance the dam's safety and operational efficiency continue, the Ensign Bickford Dam stands as a beacon of resilience and innovation in the realm of sustainable water resource management.
Year Completed |
1995 |
Dam Length |
550 |
Dam Height |
19 |
River Or Stream |
TRIB-THOMPSON CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
12.8 |
Drainage Area |
0.08 |
Nid Storage |
118.2 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Nid Height |
19 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Pond River Near Apex
|
39cfs |
Green River At Paradise
|
1890cfs |
Green River At Lock 2 At Calhoun
|
2370cfs |
Tradewater River At Olney
|
26cfs |
South Fork Panther Creek Near Whitesville
|
25cfs |
Caney Creek Near Horse Branch
|
38cfs |
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.
Ensign Bickford Dam