Kentucky Dam - Big Sandy Mud Creek Levee Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 6, 2025
The Kentucky Dam - Big Sandy Mud Creek Levee, also known as Kentucky Lake, is a federal-owned structure in Benton, Kentucky, designed by the Tennessee Valley Authority (TVA) to reduce flood risk along the Tennessee River.
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Summary
Completed in 1944, this earthen dam spans 3550 feet in length and has a structural height of 10 feet. Despite its age, the dam is still considered to have a high hazard potential and is inspected every two years to ensure its integrity.
Managed by the TVA, the Kentucky Dam plays a crucial role in flood risk reduction in the region, with its primary purpose being to protect surrounding areas from potential water inundation. The dam is associated with five other structures and is situated in a high-risk area, as indicated by a risk assessment rating of 2. While specific details on its condition assessment are not readily available, the dam's emergency action plan was last revised in 2015, highlighting the ongoing efforts to ensure preparedness in case of any unforeseen events.
Water resource and climate enthusiasts interested in the Kentucky Dam - Big Sandy Mud Creek Levee will find this federal-owned structure a key component in the region's flood control system. Managed and funded by the TVA, this earthen dam stands as a testament to engineering prowess and serves as a critical barrier against potential water-related disasters along the Tennessee River. Its strategic location, design, and ongoing risk management measures underscore the importance of this infrastructure in safeguarding communities and natural resources from the impacts of flooding.
Year Completed |
1944 |
Dam Length |
3550 |
Dam Height |
10 |
River Or Stream |
TENNESSEE RIVER |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Structural Height |
10 |
Outlet Gates |
None |
Hazard Potential |
High |
Foundations |
Soil |
Nid Height |
10 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Cypress Creek At Camden
|
5cfs |
Big Sandy River At Bruceton
|
182cfs |
Crooked Creek Near Huntingdon
|
38cfs |
Clarks River At Murray
|
15cfs |
Duck River Above Hurricane Mills
|
3660cfs |
Yellow Creek At Ellis Mills
|
49cfs |
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.
Kentucky Dam - Big Sandy Mud Creek Levee