The Corps operates the lake primarily for flood control in the Upper Green River watershed and forms an integral unit in the comprehensive plan for flood control for the Ohio and Mississippi rivers. The lake’s dam is located 305.7 miles above the mouth of the Green River and 26 miles upstream from Greensburg, Ky.
The Corps keeps the lake at a low level (winter pool) during fall and winter months, when excessive rainfall is likely. The lake can retain surface water runoff should heavy rains occur, until the swollen streams and rivers below the dam recede and can handle the release of stored water without threatening lives or property.
Green River Lake is the largest project in the Louisville District, counting both the land and water acreage (33,793 acres). The Corps, in cooperation with the Commonwealth of Kentucky, manages the land and water for wildlife, fisheries and recreation. Green River Lake provides immeasurable benefits to the local economy through flood protection and recreation.
The 8,210 acre Green River Lake and surrounding area offers a wide variety of outdoor recreation opportunities, to include campgrounds, boat ramps, picnic shelters, beaches and a Visitor Center. The Visitor Center is a must see facility and is at the heart of Green River Lake. Located close to the Dam, the Green River Lake Visitor Center was built in 1972 as the US Army Corps of Engineers Louisville District’s first Interpretive Center and was upgraded in 1978 to house the Corps Office staff. Today, the Visitor Center is a big attraction to tourists, locals and school groups due to its educational exhibits and helpful staff.