Middle Lake Carnico Dam

HINKSTON CREEK· Nicholas, Kentucky· Built 1962· Earth· 30 ft tall
Significant Hazard Recreation Local Government

Key Takeaway

Middle Lake Carnico Dam is classified as significant hazard in Kentucky. It was completed in 1962 and is 64 years old. Its primary use is recreation. Significant hazard means failure could cause economic or environmental damage. Learn more.

Physical Details

Dam Height 30 ft (taller than 49% in KY)
Dam Length575 ft
Dam TypeEarth
Max Storage111 acre-ft
Normal Storage94 acre-ft
Surface Area10 acres
Drainage Area0 sq mi
Year Completed1962 (64 years old)
NID IDKY00410

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: December 15, 2023
State Regulated: Yes
Regulatory Agency: KY Division of Water

Ownership

NICHOLAS COUNTY FISCAL COURT

Local Government

Nearby Dams

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the hazard classification of Middle Lake Carnico Dam?

Middle Lake Carnico 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 Middle Lake Carnico Dam?

Middle Lake Carnico Dam is owned by NICHOLAS COUNTY FISCAL COURT (Local Government). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.

When was Middle Lake Carnico Dam built?

Middle Lake Carnico Dam was completed in 1962, making it 64 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 Middle Lake Carnico Dam?

Middle Lake Carnico 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 Middle Lake Carnico Dam?

Middle Lake Carnico Dam has a dam height of 30 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 Middle Lake Carnico Dam last inspected?

Middle Lake Carnico Dam was last inspected on December 15, 2023. 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.