Jerry Powell Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 6, 2025

Jerry Powell Dam in Henry, Kentucky, is a privately owned structure regulated by the Kentucky Division of Water.


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Summary

The dam, primarily used for recreation, is an earth-type dam standing at a height of 31 feet and stretching 780 feet in length. With a storage capacity of 362.8 acre-feet and a surface area of 23.4 acres, the dam holds significant hazard potential and is currently assessed as being in poor condition.

Despite its risk assessment, the dam has not been inspected in recent years, highlighting the need for regular monitoring and maintenance to ensure public safety. With a moderate risk level of 3 out of 5, it is crucial for the owners to update emergency action plans and prepare for potential inundation events. Water resource and climate enthusiasts may find Jerry Powell Dam an intriguing case study for understanding the importance of proper dam management and the potential impacts of neglecting maintenance and inspection protocols.

Dam Length

780

Dam Height

31

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

23.4

Drainage Area

0.9

Nid Storage

362.8

Hazard Potential

Significant

Nid Height

31
       
Seasonal Comparison

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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.