The Glenns Creek
watershed occupies northwest Woodford County. The land is in the inner subregion
of the Bluegrass physiographic region, characterized by undulating terrain and
moderate rates of both surface runoff and groundwater drainage. Most 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. Some areas lie above
interbedded limestones and shales (>20% limestone, allowing groundwater flow
where the clay content is low enough).
Waterways. Glenns Creek empties into the Kentucky River south of
Frankfort, just above Interstate 64. Among the creeks that feed it are Camden
Creek and Buck Run.
Land and water use. Land in the watershed is almost 85% agricultural,
more than 5% rural and wooded, and about 10% residential or commercial. The
surface waters of the watershed supply the drinking water for the municipal
system in Versailles. Three businesses and organizations hold permits for
discharges into the creeks. See tables for details.
Agency data assessment. The assessed creek segment in this watershed
fully supports all of 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 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. Data show high levels of bacteria indicative of fecal
contamination in Glenns Creek (above 200 colonies/ml). Phosphorus levels were
ten times above the level that may cause potential nutrient enrichment problems
(> 0.1 mg/L). See tables for details.