Fauson Lake Dam

TRIB-BARRETT CREEK· Carter, Kentucky· Built 1965· Earth· 37 ft tall
High Hazard Recreation Private

Key Takeaway

Fauson Lake Dam is classified as high hazard in Kentucky. It was completed in 1965 and is 61 years old. Its primary use is recreation. High hazard means loss of life is likely if the dam fails — it does not indicate the dam's current condition. Learn more.

Physical Details

Dam Height 37 ft (taller than 67.7% in KY)
Dam Length255 ft
Dam TypeEarth
Max Storage46 acre-ft
Normal Storage24 acre-ft
Surface Area2 acres
Drainage Area0 sq mi
Year Completed1965 (61 years old)
NID IDKY00482

Safety Information

High Hazard

Loss of human life is likely if the dam fails.

Hazard potential describes downstream consequences of failure, not the dam's current condition. What does this mean?

Emergency Action Plan: No
Last Inspection: April 18, 2024
State Regulated: Yes
Regulatory Agency: KY Division of Water

Ownership

S & S READY MIX

Private

Nearby Dams

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the hazard classification of Fauson Lake Dam?

Fauson Lake Dam is classified as High Hazard. Loss of human life is likely if the dam fails. This classification refers to the potential downstream consequences of a failure, not the dam's current structural condition.

Who owns and operates Fauson Lake Dam?

Fauson Lake Dam is owned by S & S READY MIX (Private). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.

When was Fauson Lake Dam built?

Fauson Lake Dam was completed in 1965, making it 61 years old. Many U.S. dams were built between the 1930s and 1970s during a period of major infrastructure investment.

What is the primary purpose of Fauson Lake Dam?

Fauson Lake Dam serves the following purposes: Recreation. Many dams in the U.S. are multi-purpose, supporting flood control, water supply, recreation, and other uses.

How tall is Fauson Lake Dam?

Fauson Lake Dam has a dam height of 37 ft. Dam height is measured from the natural streambed at the downstream toe to the top of the dam, and may differ from the visible height.

When was Fauson Lake Dam last inspected?

Fauson Lake Dam was last inspected on April 18, 2024. Inspection dates indicate when a formal review occurred, not the results of that inspection.

Data from the National Inventory of Dams (NID) maintained by the US Army Corps of Engineers. Dam conditions may have changed since the last update. This site is not affiliated with USACE. Do not use for emergency planning — contact your local dam safety program.