Dam No. 5n Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 5, 2025
Dam No.
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Summary
5n, located in Chavies, Perry County, Kentucky, is a privately owned earth dam with a height of 51 feet and a length of 225 feet. Its primary purpose is classified as "Other," with a storage capacity of 177 acre-feet. The dam falls under the jurisdiction of the Mine Safety and Health Administration for regulatory oversight and inspections, with no state involvement in permitting or enforcement.
Despite being a privately owned structure, Dam No. 5n is considered to have a significant hazard potential, although the current condition assessment is not available. The Emergency Action Plan status, risk assessment, and inundation maps for the dam are also listed as not available. With no state regulatory agency involved in its oversight, the dam's safety and maintenance fall under the responsibility of the owner, highlighting the importance of proactive monitoring and maintenance practices to ensure the safety and integrity of the structure for both the local community and the environment.
For water resource and climate enthusiasts, Dam No. 5n presents an intriguing case study of a privately owned dam in a rural area, showcasing the complexities of dam ownership and regulation. The dam's location in the Louisville District and its association with the Mine Safety and Health Administration for oversight add layers of interest for those interested in infrastructure management and environmental conservation. The lack of available information on the dam's condition and emergency preparedness underscores the importance of transparency and accountability in dam management, especially in regions prone to extreme weather events and changing climate conditions.
Dam Length |
225 |
Dam Height |
51 |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Nid Storage |
177 |
Hazard Potential |
Significant |
Nid Height |
51 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
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.
Area Campgrounds
| Location | Reservations | Toilets |
|---|---|---|
Trace Branch - Buckhorn Lake
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Gays Creek Campground
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Buckhorn Dam Rec Area - Buckhorn Lake
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Dam No. 5n