Beshear Lake Dam
Key Takeaway
Beshear Lake Dam is classified as significant hazard in Kentucky. It was completed in 1962 and is 64 years old. Its primary use is water supply. Significant hazard means failure could cause economic or environmental damage. Learn more.
Physical Details
| Dam Height | 38 ft (taller than 69.5% in KY) |
| Dam Length | 550 ft |
| Dam Type | Earth |
| Max Storage | 17.8K acre-ft |
| Normal Storage | 7.8K acre-ft |
| Surface Area | 794 acres |
| Drainage Area | 28 sq mi |
| Year Completed | 1962 (64 years old) |
| NID ID | KY00044 |
Safety Information
No probable loss of human life, but can cause economic loss, environmental damage, or disruption of lifeline facilities.
Hazard potential describes downstream consequences of failure, not the dam's current condition. What does this mean?
Ownership
COMMONWEALTH OF KENTUCKY
State Government
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Low Hazard 30 ftFrequently Asked Questions
What is the hazard classification of Beshear Lake Dam?
Beshear Lake Dam is classified as Significant Hazard. No probable loss of human life, but can cause economic loss, environmental damage, or disruption of lifeline facilities. This classification refers to the potential downstream consequences of a failure, not the dam's current structural condition.
Who owns and operates Beshear Lake Dam?
Beshear Lake Dam is owned by COMMONWEALTH OF KENTUCKY (State Government). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.
When was Beshear Lake Dam built?
Beshear Lake Dam was completed in 1962, making it 64 years old. Many U.S. dams were built between the 1930s and 1970s during a period of major infrastructure investment.
What is the primary purpose of Beshear Lake Dam?
Beshear Lake Dam serves the following purposes: Water Supply. Many dams in the U.S. are multi-purpose, supporting flood control, water supply, recreation, and other uses.
How tall is Beshear Lake Dam?
Beshear Lake Dam has a dam height of 38 ft. Dam height is measured from the natural streambed at the downstream toe to the top of the dam, and may differ from the visible height.
When was Beshear Lake Dam last inspected?
Beshear Lake Dam was last inspected on September 27, 2022. Inspection dates indicate when a formal review occurred, not the results of that inspection.