Hollybush Dam Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 5, 2025
Hollybush Dam, located in Bonnyman, Kentucky, is a privately owned structure completed in 1988 by designer BOWSER MORNER.
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Summary
Situated on Troublesome Creek of the North Fork of the Kentucky River, this earth dam stands at a height of 65 feet and stretches 370 feet in length. With a maximum storage capacity of 253 acre-feet and a normal storage of 89 acre-feet, Hollybush Dam serves various purposes beyond flood control, making it a vital water resource in Perry County.
Despite its significance, Hollybush Dam faces challenges in terms of its condition assessment, which was rated as poor during the last inspection in February 2018. Its hazard potential is classified as high, highlighting the importance of regular monitoring and maintenance to ensure public safety and the dam's structural integrity. While the risk assessment indicates a moderate risk level, the dam's risk management measures and emergency action plan status are currently unspecified, underscoring the need for proactive measures to mitigate potential dangers associated with this essential water infrastructure.
As a key component of the local water management system, Hollybush Dam's condition and risk profile emphasize the critical role it plays in protecting communities and ecosystems in Perry County. With its rich history and ongoing regulatory oversight by the Kentucky Division of Water, efforts to address the dam's maintenance needs and emergency preparedness are essential to safeguarding its continued operation and resilience in the face of changing climate patterns and water resource demands.
Year Completed |
1988 |
Dam Length |
370 |
Dam Height |
65 |
River Or Stream |
Troublesome Creek of North Fork of Kentucky River |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
4 |
Drainage Area |
1.04 |
Nid Storage |
253 |
Hazard Potential |
High |
Nid Height |
65 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
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.
Area Campgrounds
| Location | Reservations | Toilets |
|---|---|---|
Trace Branch - Buckhorn Lake
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Gays Creek Campground
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Buckhorn Dam Rec Area - Buckhorn Lake
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Hollybush Dam