Grayson Dam Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 6, 2025
Located in Carter, Kentucky, Grayson Dam, also known as Grayson Lake, serves as a vital flood risk reduction structure on the Little Sandy River.
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Summary
Constructed in 1968 by the US Army Corps of Engineers, this rockfill dam stands at a structural height of 120 feet, with a hydraulic height of 89 feet and a dam volume of 1,180,000 cubic yards. With a normal storage capacity of 29,390 acre-feet and a surface area of 1,510 acres, Grayson Dam plays a crucial role in managing water levels and mitigating flood risks in the region.
The dam features uncontrolled spillways, outlet gates including slide and valve gates, and has a hazard potential rated as high. An Emergency Action Plan (EAP) has been prepared and regularly updated to ensure effective response in case of a dam-related emergency. The US Army Corps of Engineers employs risk management measures to monitor the dam's condition, prioritize risk-reduction activities, and collaborate with local emergency managers to enhance public awareness and preparedness. Despite its critical flood risk reduction purpose, Grayson Dam also serves recreational, fish and wildlife pond, and other purposes, highlighting its multi-faceted role in water resource management in the area.
In conclusion, Grayson Dam stands as a key infrastructure asset in Carter, Kentucky, playing a pivotal role in flood risk reduction on the Little Sandy River. With its high hazard potential and risk management strategies in place, the dam not only safeguards the local community from potential flooding but also supports various recreational and environmental initiatives. As a Federal-owned structure, Grayson Dam exemplifies the importance of sustainable water resource management and climate resilience efforts in the region.
Year Completed |
1968 |
Dam Length |
1460 |
River Or Stream |
LITTLE SANDY RIVER |
Primary Dam Type |
Rockfill |
Surface Area |
1510 |
Hydraulic Height |
89 |
Drainage Area |
196 |
Nid Storage |
118990 |
Structural Height |
120 |
Outlet Gates |
Slide (sluice gate) - 3, Valve - 1 |
Hazard Potential |
High |
Foundations |
Rock |
Nid Height |
120 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Little Sandy River At Grayson
|
248cfs |
Tygarts Creek Near Greenup
|
85cfs |
Ohio River At Ironton
|
25600cfs |
North Fork Triplett Creek Near Morehead
|
29cfs |
Ohio River At Greenup Dam Near Greenup
|
33900cfs |
Upper Twin Creek At Mcgaw Oh
|
2cfs |
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.
Grayson Dam