Dewey Dam - Brandykeg Dike Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Dewey Dam, also known as Brandykeg Dike, is a federal-owned structure located in Prestonburg, Kentucky, along the Johns Creek of Levisa Fork.


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Summary

Completed in 1950 by the US Army Corps of Engineers, this earth dam stands at 41 feet high and stretches 315 feet in length, with a storage capacity of 31,000 acre-feet. Its primary purpose is flood risk reduction, while also serving as a habitat for fish and wildlife, a recreational area, and controlling water flow downstream.

Despite being classified as having a high hazard potential, Dewey Dam is regularly inspected and monitored by the US Army Corps of Engineers to ensure its structural integrity and functionality. The dam has an emergency action plan in place, meeting guidelines and regularly updated to manage potential risks. In the event of severe weather events or increased water levels, the dam may release water to prevent overflow and maintain safety. The Corps works closely with local emergency managers and the community to raise awareness and ensure readiness in case of a dam-related emergency.

Overall, Dewey Dam plays a crucial role in managing flood risk in the area, highlighting the importance of proper maintenance and monitoring of water infrastructure. With a focus on risk management measures and ongoing maintenance, the US Army Corps of Engineers remains committed to ensuring the safety and functionality of this vital water resource for both flood control and environmental conservation purposes.

Year Completed

1950

Dam Length

315

Dam Height

41

River Or Stream

JOHNS CREEK OF LEVISA FORK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Nid Storage

31000

Hazard Potential

High

Nid Height

41
       
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.