Shannon Wells Lake Dam Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 6, 2025
Shannon Wells Lake Dam, located in Ashland, Kentucky, is a privately owned earth dam that serves primarily for recreational purposes.
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Summary
Completed in 2016, this dam stands at a height of 39 feet and spans 340 feet in length, with a storage capacity of 113 acre-feet. With a surface area of 7.2 acres and a drainage area of 0.28 square miles, Shannon Wells Lake Dam provides a picturesque setting for outdoor activities in Boyd County.
Managed by the Kentucky Division of Water, Shannon Wells Lake Dam has been assessed to have a low hazard potential and fair condition. Despite its moderate risk rating, this dam has not been modified since its completion and is subject to inspections every 5 years. The dam features an uncontrolled spillway and does not have outlet gates. With its tranquil surroundings and recreational amenities, Shannon Wells Lake Dam offers both residents and visitors a beautiful spot to enjoy nature and outdoor activities in the heart of Kentucky.
Year Completed |
2016 |
Dam Length |
340 |
Dam Height |
39 |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
7.2 |
Drainage Area |
0.28 |
Nid Storage |
113 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Nid Height |
39 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Ohio River At Ironton
|
25600cfs |
Little Sandy River At Grayson
|
248cfs |
Symmes Creek At Aid Oh
|
110cfs |
Tygarts Creek Near Greenup
|
85cfs |
East Fork Twelvepole Creek Near Dunlow
|
19cfs |
Ohio River At Greenup Dam Near Greenup
|
33900cfs |
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.
Shannon Wells Lake Dam