Bridge Fork Dam

EAST APPLE TREE BRANCH· McCreary, Kentucky· Built 1930· Earth· 105 ft tall
Significant Hazard Other Private

Key Takeaway

Bridge Fork Dam is classified as significant hazard in Kentucky. It was completed in 1930 and is 96 years old. Its primary use is other. Significant hazard means failure could cause economic or environmental damage. Learn more.

Physical Details

Dam Height 105 ft (taller than 93.6% in KY)
Dam Length1,450 ft
Dam TypeEarth
Max Storage2.5K acre-ft
Normal Storage300 acre-ft
Surface Area11 acres
Drainage Area1 sq mi
Year Completed1930 (96 years old)
NID IDKY00568

Safety Information

Significant Hazard

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?

Emergency Action Plan: No
Last Inspection: August 4, 2016
State Regulated: Yes
Regulatory Agency: KY Division of Water

Ownership

NORFOLK SOUTHERN RAILROAD

Private

Nearby Dams

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the hazard classification of Bridge Fork Dam?

Bridge Fork 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 Bridge Fork Dam?

Bridge Fork Dam is owned by NORFOLK SOUTHERN RAILROAD (Private). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.

When was Bridge Fork Dam built?

Bridge Fork Dam was completed in 1930, making it 96 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 Bridge Fork Dam?

Bridge Fork Dam serves the following purposes: Other. Many dams in the U.S. are multi-purpose, supporting flood control, water supply, recreation, and other uses.

How tall is Bridge Fork Dam?

Bridge Fork Dam has a dam height of 105 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 Bridge Fork Dam last inspected?

Bridge Fork Dam was last inspected on August 4, 2016. Inspection dates indicate when a formal review occurred, not the results of that inspection.

Data from the National Inventory of Dams (NID) maintained by the US Army Corps of Engineers. Dam conditions may have changed since the last update. This site is not affiliated with USACE. Do not use for emergency planning — contact your local dam safety program.