Lees Lake Dam

TR-NORTH FORK ELKHORN CREEK· Scott, Kentucky· Built 1966· Earth· 32 ft tall

Significant Hazard Recreation Private

Key Takeaway

Lees Lake Dam is classified as significant hazard in Kentucky. It was completed in 1966 and is 60 years old. Its primary use is recreation. Significant hazard means failure could cause economic or environmental damage. Learn more.

Physical Details

Dam Height	32 ft (taller than 55.9% in KY)
Dam Length	510 ft
Dam Type	Earth
Max Storage	263 acre-ft
Normal Storage	176 acre-ft

Surface Area	15 acres
Drainage Area	0 sq mi
Year Completed	1966 (60 years old)
NID ID	KY00749

Safety Information

Significant Hazard

No probable loss of human life, but can cause economic loss, environmental damage, or disruption of lifeline facilities.

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

Emergency Action Plan: No

Last Inspection: May 29, 2024

State Regulated: Yes

Regulatory Agency: KY Division of Water

Ownership

John & Claire Chmela

Private

Nearby Dams

Longview Golf Course Lake No 1

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Longview Golf Course Lake No 2

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Belvedere Lake Dam

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Lake Elkhorn

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Low Hazard 66 ft

Shadwell Farms

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Bradshaw Detention Dam

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High Hazard 15 ft

Ab Gay Dam

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Ol Alexander Dam

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Low Hazard 15 ft

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the hazard classification of Lees Lake Dam?

Lees Lake Dam is classified as Significant Hazard. No probable loss of human life, but can cause economic loss, environmental damage, or disruption of lifeline facilities. This classification refers to the potential downstream consequences of a failure, not the dam's current structural condition.

Who owns and operates Lees Lake Dam?

Lees Lake Dam is owned by John & Claire Chmela (Private). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.

When was Lees Lake Dam built?

Lees Lake Dam was completed in 1966, making it 60 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 Lees Lake Dam?

Lees 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 Lees Lake Dam?

Lees Lake Dam has a dam height of 32 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 Lees Lake Dam last inspected?

Lees Lake Dam was last inspected on May 29, 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.