Sediment Basin No.4 Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 8, 2025

Sediment Basin No.4, located in Roaring Spring, Kentucky, is a Federal-owned structure designed by Bhate Environmental and managed by the US Army.


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Summary

Completed in 1998, this Earth dam stands at 26 feet high and serves primarily for flood risk reduction along the Tributary Casey Creek. With a storage capacity of 70 acre-feet, this basin covers a surface area of 3 acres and has a drainage area of 1 square mile.

Despite its low hazard potential, Sediment Basin No.4 undergoes regular inspections every 4 years, with the last assessment conducted in March 2017. While the condition assessment is currently unavailable, the risk assessment categorizes it as moderate (3). The dam features an uncontrolled spillway, measuring 12 feet in width, and lacks outlet gates. Although the structure has not been modified since its completion, it plays a crucial role in debris control and flood risk mitigation in the region.

For water resource and climate enthusiasts, Sediment Basin No.4 presents a fascinating case study of a Federal-owned structure designed to manage flood risks and control debris along the Tributary Casey Creek in Trigg, Kentucky. The dam, constructed by the US Army, stands as a testament to engineering excellence with its Earth design and stone buttress core types. While its primary purpose is flood risk reduction, the basin's storage capacity of 70 acre-feet and surface area of 3 acres showcase its importance in safeguarding the local community from potential hazards. As the dam continues to be monitored and inspected periodically, its role in maintaining water security and environmental safety remains crucial in the region's overall resilience to climate challenges.

Year Completed

1998

Dam Length

475

Dam Height

26

River Or Stream

Trib. Casey Creek

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

3

Hydraulic Height

28

Drainage Area

1

Nid Storage

70

Structural Height

28

Outlet Gates

None

Hazard Potential

Low

Foundations

Unlisted/Unknown

Nid Height

28
       
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.