Peter Cave Fresh Water Impoundment Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 6, 2025
The Peter Cave Fresh Water Impoundment in Martin, Kentucky, is a private earth dam with a height of 290 feet and a length of 1300 feet.
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Summary
It has a storage capacity of 33,617 acre-feet and is designated for "other" purposes. The dam is owned privately and is not regulated by the state, although it falls under the jurisdiction of the Mine Safety and Health Administration.
Despite its high hazard potential, the condition assessment of the Peter Cave Fresh Water Impoundment is not available, and emergency preparedness measures such as an Emergency Action Plan (EAP) are not documented. The dam's risk assessment and management measures are also lacking information. This raises concerns about the safety and environmental impact of the impoundment, especially in the event of an emergency or natural disaster.
Water resource and climate enthusiasts may be interested in the Peter Cave Fresh Water Impoundment as a case study in dam safety and regulation. Its unique design and high hazard potential highlight the importance of proper maintenance and emergency preparedness for water infrastructure. Further research and data collection on the impoundment could provide valuable insights into the intersection of water resources, climate change, and public safety.
Dam Length |
1300 |
Dam Height |
290 |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Nid Storage |
33617 |
Hazard Potential |
High |
Nid Height |
290 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Tug Fork At Kermit
|
492cfs |
Tug Fork At Williamson
|
365cfs |
Johns Creek Near Meta
|
21cfs |
Levisa Fork At Paintsville
|
1880cfs |
Levisa Fork At Pikeville
|
1460cfs |
East Fork Twelvepole Creek Near Dunlow
|
24cfs |
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.
Peter Cave Fresh Water Impoundment