Dewey Dam

JOHNS CREEK OF LEVISA FORK· Floyd, Kentucky· Built 1949· Earth·

High Hazard Flood Risk Reduction Fish And Wildlife Pond Recreation Federal Government

Key Takeaway

Dewey Dam is classified as high hazard in Kentucky. It was completed in 1949 and is 77 years old. Its primary use is flood risk reduction. 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 Length	913 ft
Dam Type	Earth
Max Storage	93.3K acre-ft
Normal Storage	17.2K acre-ft

Surface Area	1,100 acres
Drainage Area	206 sq mi
Max Discharge	22,800 cfs
Year Completed	1949 (77 years old)
NID ID	KY03029

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 19, 2023

State Regulated: No

Ownership

USACE - Huntington District

Federal Government

Nearby Dams

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Big Hollow Slurry Impoundment

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Grassy Gap Branch Fresh Water Impoundment

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Middle Fork Impoundment

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High Hazard 190 ft

Bob S Dam

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Paintsville Dam

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High Hazard

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the hazard classification of Dewey Dam?

Dewey 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 Dewey Dam?

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

When was Dewey Dam built?

Dewey Dam was completed in 1949, making it 77 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 Dewey Dam?

Dewey Dam serves the following purposes: Flood Risk Reduction, Fish And Wildlife Pond, Recreation. Many dams in the U.S. are multi-purpose, supporting flood control, water supply, recreation, and other uses.

When was Dewey Dam last inspected?

Dewey Dam was last inspected on July 19, 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.