Paradise Fossil Plant - Coal Wash Fines Pond 2 Stilling Pond Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 6, 2025
Paradise Fossil Plant - Coal Wash Fines Pond 2 Stilling Pond in Kentucky is a Federal-owned structure managed by the Tennessee Valley Authority (TVA) for tailings purposes.
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Summary
Built in 1987, this Earth-type dam stands at a height of 22 feet and spans a length of 1730 feet, with a storage capacity of 111 acre-feet. Situated in Muhlenberg County, the pond is located near Drakesboro and is part of the GREEN RIVER - OFFSTREAM watershed.
Despite being classified as low hazard potential, this structure underwent structural modifications in 2015. The dam lacks a spillway and outlet gates, and is not regulated or inspected by state authorities. The last recorded inspection was conducted in January 2020, with a frequency of once every three years. While the condition assessment is marked as "Not Available," the risk assessment rates the site as high risk (2), highlighting a potential need for improved risk management measures moving forward.
Water resource and climate enthusiasts interested in the infrastructure and management of coal wash fines ponds will find Paradise Fossil Plant - Coal Wash Fines Pond 2 Stilling Pond to be a noteworthy case study. The unique characteristics of this pond, including its construction details, storage capacity, and risk assessment, offer insights into the challenges and considerations associated with managing such structures in the face of evolving regulatory standards and environmental concerns.
Years Modified |
2015 - Structural |
Year Completed |
1987 |
Dam Length |
1730 |
Dam Height |
22 |
River Or Stream |
GREEN RIVER - OFFSTREAM |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
38 |
Hydraulic Height |
22 |
Drainage Area |
0.11 |
Nid Storage |
111 |
Structural Height |
22 |
Outlet Gates |
None |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Soil |
Nid Height |
22 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Green River At Paradise
|
2680cfs |
Pond River Near Apex
|
57cfs |
Caney Creek Near Horse Branch
|
47cfs |
Green River At Lock 2 At Calhoun
|
3340cfs |
South Fork Panther Creek Near Whitesville
|
25cfs |
Barren River At Bowling Green
|
464cfs |
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.
Paradise Fossil Plant - Coal Wash Fines Pond 2 Stilling Pond