Cynthiana Impoundment

SOUTH FORK LICKING RIVER· Harrison, Kentucky· Built 1920· Gravity· 10 ft tall
Significant Hazard Water Supply Local Government

Key Takeaway

Cynthiana Impoundment is classified as significant hazard in Kentucky. It was completed in 1920 and is 106 years old. Its primary use is water supply. Significant hazard means failure could cause economic or environmental damage. Learn more.

Physical Details

Dam Height 10 ft (taller than 0.2% in KY)
Dam Length190 ft
Dam TypeGravity
Max Storage48 acre-ft
Normal Storage260 acre-ft
Surface Area65 acres
Drainage Area604 sq mi
Year Completed1920 (106 years old)
NID IDKY00318

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: February 19, 2016
State Regulated: Yes
Regulatory Agency: KY Division of Water

Ownership

CITY OF CYNTHIANA

Local Government

Nearby Dams

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the hazard classification of Cynthiana Impoundment?

Cynthiana Impoundment 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 Cynthiana Impoundment?

Cynthiana Impoundment is owned by CITY OF CYNTHIANA (Local Government). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.

When was Cynthiana Impoundment built?

Cynthiana Impoundment was completed in 1920, making it 106 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 Cynthiana Impoundment?

Cynthiana Impoundment 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 Cynthiana Impoundment?

Cynthiana Impoundment has a dam height of 10 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 Cynthiana Impoundment last inspected?

Cynthiana Impoundment was last inspected on February 19, 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.