Nolin River Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 12, 2025

Nolin River Dam, also known as Nolin Lake, is a vital flood risk reduction structure located in Kentucky.


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Summary

Constructed in 1963 by the US Army Corps of Engineers, this Rockfill dam stands at 167 feet tall and spans 980 feet in length, with a storage capacity of 609,400 acre-feet. While the primary purpose of the dam is flood risk reduction, it also provides recreational opportunities for visitors.

A risk assessment conducted in June 2018 classified Nolin River Dam as having a Moderate risk level compared to other USACE-owned dams. Although the dam significantly reduces flood risks to downstream communities, extreme rainfall events could still lead to potential flooding. USACE actively manages the dam's risk by collaborating with local emergency managers, updating emergency plans, conducting regular inspections, and maintaining flood-fighting materials for emergency response.

Despite its high hazard potential, the Nolin River Dam plays a crucial role in protecting communities along the Nolin and Green Rivers from flooding. USACE's proactive risk management measures and ongoing monitoring ensure the safety and reliability of the dam, emphasizing the importance of continued maintenance and preparedness in safeguarding against potential disasters.

Year Completed

1963

Dam Length

980

River Or Stream

NOLIN RIVER

Primary Dam Type

Rockfill

Surface Area

5790

Hydraulic Height

146

Drainage Area

703

Nid Storage

609400

Structural Height

167

Outlet Gates

Uncontrolled - 0, Vertical Lift - 3

Hazard Potential

High

Nid Height

167
       
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.