The Middle Fork
Kentucky River (upper) watershed covers northern Leslie County and part of
western Perry County. The land is in the Eastern Kentucky Coal Field
physiographic region, characterized by mountainous terrain, rapid surface
runoff, and moderate rates of groundwater drainage. The watershed is underlain
by coals, sandstones, and shales: this geology is generally conducive to
productive wells, although water quality may be low for wells that draw from
coal layers.
Waterways. This watershed includes the section of the Middle Fork
between Cutshin Creek and Buckhorn, including Buckhorn Lake. Among the creeks
that feed it are Hell for Certain Creek, Grassy Branch, Elkhorn Creek, Rush
Creek, Leatherwood Creek, Otter Creek, and Gays Creek. Water from the Middle
Fork Kentucky River (headwaters) watershed and the Cutshin Creek watershed also
flows into this watershed.
Land and water use. Land in the watershed is rural and wooded. The
surface waters of the watershed supply the drinking water for Buckhorn Lake
State Park. The park holds two permits for discharges into the creeks. See
tables for details.
Agency data assessment. The three assessed segments in this watershed
include one, Buckhorn Lake, that only partially supports its designated uses,
based on biological and/or water-quality data. 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 the highest 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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