Laurel Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Laurel Dam, also known as Laurel Lake, is a Federal-owned rockfill dam located in Burnside, Kentucky.


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Summary

Completed in 1973, the dam stands at a hydraulic height of 282 feet and has a length of 1420 feet, with a storage capacity of 435,600 acre-feet. Its primary purpose is for recreation, with additional functions including flood risk reduction, hydroelectric power generation, and water supply.

The dam is managed by the US Army Corps of Engineers and is classified as having a high hazard potential. USACE employs various risk management measures, including regular monitoring of the dam's condition, prioritizing activities to mitigate risks, and collaborating with local emergency managers to develop emergency action plans and evacuation procedures. The dam's risk characterization acknowledges that while dams can help manage water levels, severe weather events can lead to overflow and potential issues.

USACE's proactive approach to managing dam-related flood risks ensures the safety and integrity of Laurel Dam. By engaging with stakeholders and continually updating emergency plans, USACE demonstrates its commitment to ensuring the dam's resilience in the face of changing climate conditions and potential hazards.

Year Completed

1973

Dam Length

1420

River Or Stream

LAUREL

Primary Dam Type

Rockfill

Surface Area

6060

Hydraulic Height

282

Drainage Area

282

Nid Storage

435600

Structural Height

282

Hazard Potential

High

Foundations

Rock

Nid Height

282
       
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.