Russell County is proud of its water-related history. The creeks and rivers which now continually re-supply Lake Cumberland were the source of energy for early industry.
Tourism is the new industry of Russell County water.
With the creation of Wolf Creek Dam , Russell County, Jamestown, and Russell Springs continue to enjoy the water related industry now centered around the beautiful Lake Cumberland. Lake Cumberland began with Wolf Creek Dam. Lake Cumberland, one of the largest man-made lakes in the world, was originally created for the purpose of flood control and hydroelectric power generation. It was placed in full operation in 1952. The dam stands 240 feet high and is 5,736 feet long.