Saddle Fork Dam Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 5, 2025
Saddle Fork Dam, located in Slemp, Kentucky, is a privately owned Earth dam primarily used for tailings storage.
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Summary
Standing at a height of 200 feet with a length of 700 feet, this dam has a storage capacity of 3556 acre-feet. While the dam is not regulated by the state, it falls under the jurisdiction of the Mine Safety and Health Administration, ensuring safety and compliance with regulations.
With a high hazard potential, Saddle Fork Dam poses a potential risk to the surrounding area in the event of a failure. The condition assessment of the dam is currently marked as "Not Available," indicating a need for further evaluation and monitoring. Despite the lack of recent inspection data and emergency preparedness information, the dam serves as a critical infrastructure for water resource management in the region.
Enthusiasts of water resources and climate change should keep a close eye on developments related to Saddle Fork Dam, as its condition and management play a crucial role in ensuring the safety and sustainability of the local environment. Stay informed on any updates regarding inspections, risk assessments, and emergency preparedness measures for this important Earth dam in Perry County, Kentucky.
Dam Length |
700 |
Dam Height |
200 |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Nid Storage |
3556 |
Hazard Potential |
High |
Nid Height |
200 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Poor Fork At Cumberland
|
103cfs |
Cutshin Creek At Wooton
|
25cfs |
North Fork Kentucky River At Hazard
|
293cfs |
Cumberland River Near Harlan
|
582cfs |
North Fork Kentucky River At Whitesburg
|
25cfs |
Martins Fork Near Smith
|
144cfs |
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.
Saddle Fork Dam