Dix River Dam
Key Takeaway
Dix River Dam is classified as high hazard in Kentucky. It was completed in 1925 and is 101 years old. Its primary use is hydroelectric. 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 | 287 ft (taller than 96.5% in KY) |
| Dam Length | 1,700 ft |
| Dam Type | Rockfill |
| Max Storage | 320.0K acre-ft |
| Normal Storage | 230.5K acre-ft |
| Surface Area | 2,940 acres |
| Drainage Area | 439 sq mi |
| Year Completed | 1925 (101 years old) |
| NID ID | KY00316 |
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
KENTUCKY UTILITIES COMPANY
Private
Nearby Dams
E.W. Brown Auxiliary Ash Pond
Mercer, KY
High Hazard 112 ftBluegrass Sportsman Club
Jessamine, KY
Low Hazard 35 ftCowden Lake Dam
Garrard, KY
Low Hazard 32 ftKentucky River Lock & Dam 8
Jessamine, KY
Significant Hazard 31 ftRamsey Farm Dam (Lower)
Jessamine, KY
Low Hazard 17 ftRiney Park Storm Detention
Jessamine, KY
Low Hazard 14 ftDuncan Nave Dam
Jessamine, KY
High Hazard 15 ftKentucky River Lock & Dam 6
Mercer, KY
Low Hazard 34 ftFrequently Asked Questions
What is the hazard classification of Dix River Dam?
Dix River 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 Dix River Dam?
Dix River Dam is owned by KENTUCKY UTILITIES COMPANY (Private). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.
When was Dix River Dam built?
Dix River Dam was completed in 1925, making it 101 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 Dix River Dam?
Dix River Dam serves the following purposes: Hydroelectric, Fish And Wildlife Pond, Recreation. Many dams in the U.S. are multi-purpose, supporting flood control, water supply, recreation, and other uses.
How tall is Dix River Dam?
Dix River Dam has a dam height of 287 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 Dix River Dam last inspected?
Dix River Dam was last inspected on February 8, 2023. Inspection dates indicate when a formal review occurred, not the results of that inspection.