Martins Fork Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Martins Fork Dam, also known as Martins Fork Lake, is a gravity dam located in Harlan, Kentucky, with a primary purpose of flood risk reduction.


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Summary

Completed in 1978 by the US Army Corps of Engineers, the dam has a hydraulic height of 97 feet and a structural height of 120 feet. With a storage capacity of 21,100 acre-feet and a surface area of 340 acres, the dam plays a crucial role in managing water levels and mitigating flood risks along the Martins Fork of the Cumberland River.

The dam's risk potential is rated as high, prompting the USACE to implement various risk management measures to ensure its structural integrity and enhance public safety. These measures include regular monitoring, maintenance, and repairs, as well as collaboration with local emergency managers to develop emergency action plans and evacuation procedures. The USACE also engages with the public to raise awareness of the dam and promote readiness in the event of a dam-related emergency. Despite the inherent risks associated with dams, the USACE's proactive approach aims to address and reduce potential flood risks associated with Martins Fork Dam.

As an enthusiast of water resources and climate, Martins Fork Dam stands out as a critical infrastructure for flood risk reduction in Kentucky. Its multi-arch gravity design and uncontrolled spillway underscore the importance of effective water management in mitigating potential hazards. The dam's history, storage capacity, and ongoing risk management efforts by the USACE highlight the complex interplay between infrastructure, natural forces, and community safety in a changing climate.

Year Completed

1978

Dam Length

504

River Or Stream

MARTINS FORK OF CUMBERLAND R.

Primary Dam Type

Gravity

Surface Area

340

Hydraulic Height

97

Drainage Area

56

Nid Storage

21100

Structural Height

120

Hazard Potential

High

Foundations

Rock

Nid Height

120
       
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.