Monterra Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Monterra Dam, also known as Lake Monterra, is a private dam located in Nelson County, Kentucky.


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Summary

Completed in 2007, this Earth-type dam stands at a height of 50 feet and spans a length of 868 feet, providing a storage capacity of 445 acre-feet. The dam's primary purpose is for recreation, offering a serene and picturesque setting for water enthusiasts to enjoy various activities.

Despite its low hazard potential, Monterra Dam has been assessed as being in poor condition, highlighting the need for ongoing maintenance and inspections. The dam is regulated by the Kentucky Division of Water, with state permitting, inspection, and enforcement processes in place to ensure its safety and compliance with regulations. While the risk assessment indicates a moderate level of risk, appropriate risk management measures are crucial to safeguard the surrounding community and environment.

Situated in Lebanon Junction, Monterra Dam is under the jurisdiction of the Louisville District and falls under the supervision of the private owner. With a rich history of construction by Hibbs Engineering, this dam serves as a valuable recreational resource in the region, attracting visitors to its tranquil waters and scenic surroundings. As water resource and climate enthusiasts, monitoring and maintaining the integrity of Monterra Dam is essential to preserving its functionality and ensuring the safety of all who benefit from its presence.

Year Completed

2007

Dam Length

868

Dam Height

50

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Drainage Area

0.36

Nid Storage

445

Hazard Potential

Low

Nid Height

50
       
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.