Green River Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 13, 2025

The Green River Dam, also known as Green River Lake, is a rockfill dam located in Greensburg, Kentucky.


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Summary

Completed in 1969 by the US Army Corps of Engineers, its primary purpose is flood risk reduction, but it also serves other functions such as recreation and water supply. With a hydraulic height of 123 feet and a structural height of 144 feet, the dam has a storage capacity of 723,200 acre-feet and covers a surface area of 8,210 acres.

Managed by the US Army Corps of Engineers, the Green River Dam has a high hazard potential and is subject to regular inspections and risk assessments. The dam's emergency action plan is regularly updated, and measures are in place to manage flood risks by monitoring the dam's condition, prioritizing maintenance activities, and engaging with local emergency managers and the public. Despite the dam's role in flood risk reduction, it is important to recognize that dams do not eliminate all risks of flooding, especially during severe weather events that may require water releases or lead to overwhelming water levels.

Overall, the Green River Dam plays a crucial role in managing flood risks in the region, and the US Army Corps of Engineers is dedicated to ensuring its safety and functionality. As climate change continues to impact water resources and weather patterns, it is essential to stay vigilant in monitoring and managing the risks associated with dams like the Green River Dam to protect communities and infrastructure from potential emergencies.

Year Completed

1969

Dam Length

2350

River Or Stream

GREEN RIVER

Primary Dam Type

Rockfill

Surface Area

8210

Hydraulic Height

123

Drainage Area

682

Nid Storage

723200

Structural Height

144

Outlet Gates

Uncontrolled - 0, Vertical Lift - 0

Hazard Potential

High

Nid Height

144
       
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.