The Flat Creek
watershed is in northwest Franklin County. The land is in the hills of the
bluegrass subregion of the Bluegrass physiographic region, characterized by
hilly terrain, very rapid surface runoff, and slow groundwater drainage. Much of
the watershed lies above thick layers of easily dissolved limestone that form
carbonate aquifers. Groundwater flows through channels in the limestone, so
caves and springs are common in regions with this geology. Other parts of the
watershed lie over interbedded shales and limestones (these are 20% limestone;
water conduction is poor because of the clay content of the shale). Still other
areas are underlain by interbedded limestones and shales (>20% limestone,
allowing groundwater flow where the clay content is low enough).
Waterways. Flat Creek empties into the Kentucky River at the Franklin
County-Owen County line, near Polsgrove. Among the creeks that feed it are
Marshall Creek, Goose Creek, and Little Flat Creek.
Land and water use. Land in the watershed is more than 60% rural and
wooded and almost 40% agricultural. No businesses or organizations hold permits
for discharges into the creeks. See tables for details.
Agency data assessment. The assessed creek segment in this watershed
only partially supports its designated uses, based on biological and/or
water-quality data. Siltation and habitat alteration contribute to the
impairment of the stream. See tables for details.
Watershed rankings. The ranking formula provides a preliminary
ranking by synthesizing a broad spectrum of watershed characteristics, current
conditions, and threats. This watershed ranks in the group with a moderate need
for protection and/or restoration. This rating is for the watershed on average:
particular sites and particular waters within the watershed may vary widely. See
tables for details.
Volunteer data. No volunteer data were collected in this watershed in
1999.
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