Paradise Fossil Plant - Gypsum Scrubber Sludge Impoundment Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 6, 2025

The Paradise Fossil Plant - Gypsum Scrubber Sludge Impoundment, located in Drakesboro, Kentucky, is a significant structure owned and operated by the Tennessee Valley Authority (TVA).


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Summary

This Federal facility, completed in 1984, serves as a storage reservoir for gypsum scrubber sludge, with a maximum storage capacity of 264 acre-feet. The impoundment, with a dam height of 62 feet and a hydraulic height of 60 feet, covers a surface area of 225 acres and is associated with "Jacob's Creek - Offstream."

With a spillway type categorized as "Uncontrolled" and a maximum discharge capacity of 94 cubic feet per second, the Paradise Fossil Plant impoundment is classified as having a significant hazard potential. The structure underwent modifications in 2010 and 2016, focusing on both hydraulic and structural aspects. While the condition assessment is not currently available, the facility meets moderate risk levels according to the Risk Assessment data. The impoundment also falls under the regulatory oversight of TVA, ensuring its safe operation and maintenance.

Years Modified

2010 - Hydraulic, 2010 - Structural, 2016 - Hydraulic, 2016 - Structural

Year Completed

1984

Dam Length

7850

Dam Height

62

River Or Stream

JACOB'S CREEK - OFFSTREAM

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

225

Hydraulic Height

60

Drainage Area

0.24

Nid Storage

264

Structural Height

62

Outlet Gates

Uncontrolled

Hazard Potential

Significant

Foundations

Soil

Nid Height

62
       
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.