Carr Creek Dam

CARR CREEK· Knott, Kentucky· Built 1975· Rockfill·
High Hazard Other Flood Risk Reduction Recreation Federal Government

Key Takeaway

Carr Creek Dam is classified as high hazard in Kentucky. It was completed in 1975 and is 51 years old. Its primary use is other. High hazard means loss of life is likely if the dam fails — it does not indicate the dam's current condition. Learn more.

Physical Details

Dam Length720 ft
Dam TypeRockfill
Max Storage47.7K acre-ft
Normal Storage22.6K acre-ft
Surface Area710 acres
Drainage Area58 sq mi
Max Discharge87,800 cfs
Year Completed1975 (51 years old)
NID IDKY03056

Safety Information

High Hazard

Loss of human life is likely if the dam fails.

Hazard potential describes downstream consequences of failure, not the dam's current condition. What does this mean?

Emergency Action Plan: Yes
Last Inspection: July 31, 2023
State Regulated: No

Ownership

USACE - Louisville District

Federal Government

Nearby Dams

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the hazard classification of Carr Creek Dam?

Carr Creek Dam is classified as High Hazard. Loss of human life is likely if the dam fails. This classification refers to the potential downstream consequences of a failure, not the dam's current structural condition.

Who owns and operates Carr Creek Dam?

Carr Creek Dam is owned by USACE - Louisville District (Federal Government). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.

When was Carr Creek Dam built?

Carr Creek Dam was completed in 1975, making it 51 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 Carr Creek Dam?

Carr Creek Dam serves the following purposes: Other, Flood Risk Reduction, Recreation. Many dams in the U.S. are multi-purpose, supporting flood control, water supply, recreation, and other uses.

When was Carr Creek Dam last inspected?

Carr Creek Dam was last inspected on July 31, 2023. 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.