John Thomas Lake Dam Reservoir Report
Nearby: Ben Matthews Lake Dam Jim Saylor Dam
Last Updated: December 5, 2025
John Thomas Lake Dam in Anderson, Kentucky, stands as a testament to responsible water resource management and climate resilience.
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Summary
Completed in 2008, this earth dam serves primarily for recreation, offering a serene oasis for locals and visitors alike to enjoy the beauty of John Thomas Lake. With a height of 38 feet and a length of 260 feet, the dam boasts a storage capacity of 82.6 acre-feet, providing a vital water source for the surrounding area.
Managed by a private owner and regulated by the Kentucky Division of Water, John Thomas Lake Dam undergoes regular inspections to ensure its structural integrity and safety. Despite its low hazard potential, the dam is equipped with an uncontrolled spillway to manage excess water flow during heavy rainfall events. Furthermore, the risk assessment of the dam indicates a moderate risk level, prompting the implementation of appropriate risk management measures.
Located on Benson Creek and surrounded by the picturesque landscape of Anderson County, John Thomas Lake Dam serves as both a recreational hub and a critical piece of infrastructure in the region. With its commitment to safety, sustainability, and environmental stewardship, this dam exemplifies the harmonious coexistence of water resource management and climate adaptation in the face of changing environmental conditions.
Year Completed |
2008 |
Dam Length |
260 |
Dam Height |
38 |
River Or Stream |
Benson Creek |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
5.28 |
Drainage Area |
0.05 |
Nid Storage |
82.6 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Nid Height |
38 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Salt River At Glensboro
|
70cfs |
Kentucky River At Lock 5 Near Tyrone
|
5480cfs |
Kentucky River At Lock 4 At Frankfort
|
5280cfs |
Kentucky River At Lock 6 Near Salvisa
|
5420cfs |
Elkhorn Creek Near Frankfort
|
318cfs |
Brashears Creek At Taylorsville
|
144cfs |
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.
John Thomas Lake Dam