Man-O-War Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Man-O-War Dam, located in Fayette, Kentucky, along the North Elkhorn Creek, serves as a crucial flood risk reduction structure in the area.


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Summary

Constructed in 2005 by E. A. Partners, this private-owned earth dam stands at a height of 18 feet and spans a length of 581 feet. With a spillway width of 125 feet, the dam is designed to manage uncontrolled water flow during periods of excess rainfall, preventing potential inundation and protecting nearby communities from flooding.

The Kentucky Division of Water regulates and inspects the dam regularly to ensure its structural integrity and safety. The dam has been assessed to be in fair condition as of September 2017, with a significant hazard potential due to its location and function. Despite this, the risk assessment for Man-O-War Dam is considered moderate, indicating a proactive approach to managing any potential issues and ensuring the continued protection of the surrounding area. For water resource and climate enthusiasts, this dam represents a critical infrastructure piece in the region's flood risk management strategy.

As a part of the flood risk reduction system in place, Man-O-War Dam plays a vital role in safeguarding the community of Lexington from potential water-related disasters. With its strategic location along the North Elkhorn Creek and effective design features, this structure stands as a testament to the importance of proactive water resource management in the face of changing climate conditions. The ongoing inspection and regulation efforts by the Kentucky Division of Water demonstrate a commitment to ensuring the continued functionality and safety of this essential infrastructure piece for years to come.

Year Completed

2005

Dam Length

581

Dam Height

18

River Or Stream

NORTH ELKHORN CK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Drainage Area

2.15

Hazard Potential

Significant

Nid Height

18
       
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.