Cranks Creek Lake Dam
Key Takeaway
Cranks Creek Lake Dam is classified as high hazard in Kentucky. It was completed in 1963 and is 63 years old. Its primary use is recreation. 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 Height | 120 ft (taller than 94% in KY) |
| Dam Length | 635 ft |
| Dam Type | Earth |
| Max Storage | 18.2K acre-ft |
| Normal Storage | 6.4K acre-ft |
| Surface Area | 219 acres |
| Drainage Area | 25 sq mi |
| Year Completed | 1963 (63 years old) |
| NID ID | KY00046 |
Safety Information
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?
Ownership
HARLAN COUNTY FISCAL COURT
Local Government
Nearby Dams
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the hazard classification of Cranks Creek Lake Dam?
Cranks Creek Lake 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 Cranks Creek Lake Dam?
Cranks Creek Lake Dam is owned by HARLAN COUNTY FISCAL COURT (Local Government). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.
When was Cranks Creek Lake Dam built?
Cranks Creek Lake Dam was completed in 1963, making it 63 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 Cranks Creek Lake Dam?
Cranks Creek Lake Dam serves the following purposes: Recreation. Many dams in the U.S. are multi-purpose, supporting flood control, water supply, recreation, and other uses.
How tall is Cranks Creek Lake Dam?
Cranks Creek Lake Dam has a dam height of 120 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 Cranks Creek Lake Dam last inspected?
Cranks Creek Lake Dam was last inspected on March 8, 2023. Inspection dates indicate when a formal review occurred, not the results of that inspection.