Carr Creek Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Carr Creek Dam, also known as Carr Creek Lake, is a Federal-owned rockfill dam located in Knott County, Kentucky.


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Summary

Completed in 1975 by the US Army Corps of Engineers, the dam serves as a crucial flood risk reduction structure along Carr Creek. With a hydraulic height of 104 feet and a structural height of 132 feet, the dam has a maximum storage capacity of 47,700 acre-feet and a normal storage capacity of 22,620 acre-feet.

The primary purpose of Carr Creek Dam is flood risk reduction, although it also supports recreation and other activities. The dam is equipped with an uncontrolled spillway and two vertical lift outlet gates. Regular inspections and emergency action plans are in place to address the high hazard potential associated with the dam. USACE continuously monitors the dam's condition, prioritizes risk management measures, and collaborates with local emergency managers to ensure preparedness in case of a dam-related emergency.

Overall, Carr Creek Dam plays a vital role in managing water levels and mitigating flood risks in the region. Its strategic location and operational protocols demonstrate USACE's commitment to safeguarding communities and infrastructure from the impacts of severe weather events and potential dam failures.

Year Completed

1975

Dam Length

720

River Or Stream

CARR CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Rockfill

Surface Area

710

Hydraulic Height

104

Drainage Area

58

Nid Storage

47700

Structural Height

132

Outlet Gates

Uncontrolled - 0, Vertical Lift - 2

Hazard Potential

High

Nid Height

132
       
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.