Kentucky Dam - Big Sandy North (Sugar Creek) Levee Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 6, 2025
The Kentucky Dam - Big Sandy North (Sugar Creek) Levee, also known as Kentucky Lake, is a federal-owned structure designed by the Tennessee Valley Authority (TVA) for flood risk reduction along the Tennessee River in Kentucky.
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Summary
Completed in 1944, this earth dam stands at a height of 20 feet and spans 3400 feet, with a primary purpose of flood risk reduction. The levee is part of a network of five associated structures managed by TVA for the protection of the surrounding area.
Located in Benton, Tennessee, the Kentucky Dam - Big Sandy North (Sugar Creek) Levee plays a crucial role in mitigating high hazard potential and is under the ownership, funding, design, construction, regulation, inspection, and operation of the Tennessee Valley Authority. Despite its high risk assessment, the condition assessment is currently unavailable, with inspections scheduled every two years for maintenance and safety measures. The Emergency Action Plan (EAP) was last revised in 2015, emphasizing the importance of preparedness and adherence to guidelines for potential emergencies.
Enthusiasts of water resources and climate will find the Kentucky Dam - Big Sandy North (Sugar Creek) Levee an integral component in the flood protection infrastructure of the region, showcasing the efforts of federal agencies like TVA in safeguarding communities along the Tennessee River. With its historical significance dating back to the mid-20th century, this levee serves as a reminder of the ongoing commitment to managing water resources and climate-related risks in Kentucky.
Year Completed |
1944 |
Dam Length |
3400 |
Dam Height |
20 |
River Or Stream |
TENNESSEE RIVER |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Structural Height |
20 |
Outlet Gates |
None |
Hazard Potential |
High |
Foundations |
Soil |
Nid Height |
20 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Cypress Creek At Camden
|
5cfs |
Big Sandy River At Bruceton
|
182cfs |
Crooked Creek Near Huntingdon
|
38cfs |
Clarks River At Murray
|
15cfs |
Duck River Above Hurricane Mills
|
3660cfs |
Yellow Creek At Ellis Mills
|
49cfs |
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.
Kentucky Dam - Big Sandy North (Sugar Creek) Levee