Dams were built originally to improve human quality of life and to support economic growth. Artificial lakes are impounded along these constructed dams. With time these lakes provide life to humans and to animals living on its shores and its waters. An increase or decrease in water levels affects the life in and around these lakes drastically. One such lake is Lake Cumberland.

Lake Cumberland is an artificial lake located in Kentucky. It is the tenth largest artificial lake in United Kingdom. Lake Cumberland was formed through the construction of the Wolf Creek Dam on the river Cumberland in 1952. Its construction served as a means to control flood and produce hydro electricity. Its shoreline measures 1255 miles and is spread over 65,530 acres of land. It serves as a center for tourism, and a major source to the economy.

Fearing a break in the Wolf Creek Dam the water level is being lowered from 22 January 2007. This lowering of water level is affecting the immense aquatic ecosystem below.

The number of bats, salamanders, fish and most importantly the crayfish are dying at a high rate. Environmentalists are worried about the future of these organisms as the lowering of water levels will continue for the next seven years. Cray fish are three inch long organisms living up to 40-50 year. For the students, environmentalists and adventurers who frequent the lake on weekends the crayfish are the people.