Right Fork Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Right Fork Dam, located in Coalgood, Kentucky, is a privately owned structure primarily used for water supply purposes.


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Summary

Standing at an impressive height of 370 feet with a length of 1800 feet, this earth dam has a storage capacity of 2000 acre-feet. Despite being regulated by the Mine Safety and Health Administration, the dam has not been inspected for condition assessment, posing a high hazard potential.

The dam, situated in Harlan County, Kentucky, falls under the jurisdiction of the Nashville District of the US Army Corps of Engineers. With a lack of available data on its condition assessment and emergency action plan preparedness, there are concerns about the potential risks associated with the structure. Given its significant height and storage capacity, it is crucial for water resource and climate enthusiasts to monitor the maintenance and safety measures of Right Fork Dam to prevent any potential hazards that may arise in the future.

As a vital water supply resource for the region, ensuring the proper management and maintenance of Right Fork Dam is essential to safeguarding the surrounding communities and environment. Climate change and increasing water demands highlight the importance of proactive monitoring and risk assessment for this critical infrastructure. Collaborative efforts between relevant agencies and stakeholders are necessary to address any potential vulnerabilities and ensure the long-term sustainability of this important water resource infrastructure.

Dam Length

1800

Dam Height

370

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Nid Storage

2000

Hazard Potential

High

Nid Height

370
       
Seasonal Comparison

Weather Forecast

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Nearby Streamflow Levels

Right Fork DamMARTINS FORK NEAR SMITH Preview Martins Fork Near Smith
144.0cfs
144cfs
Right Fork DamMARTINS FORK ABOVE SMITH Preview Martins Fork Above Smith
58.7cfs
59cfs
Right Fork DamCUMBERLAND RIVER NEAR HARLAN Preview Cumberland River Near Harlan
582.0cfs
582cfs
Right Fork DamPOWELL RIVER NEAR JONESVILLE Preview Powell River Near Jonesville
548.0cfs
548cfs
Right Fork DamPOOR FORK AT CUMBERLAND Preview Poor Fork At Cumberland
103.0cfs
103cfs
Right Fork DamCLINCH RIVER NEAR LOONEYS GAP Preview Clinch River Near Looneys Gap
1750.0cfs
1750cfs

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.
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Nearby Reservoirs