Dorthae Dam
Key Takeaway
Dorthae Dam is classified as significant hazard in Kentucky. It was completed in 1926 and is 100 years old. Its primary use is water supply. Significant hazard means failure could cause economic or environmental damage. Learn more.
Physical Details
| Dam Height | 33 ft (taller than 59.2% in KY) |
| Dam Length | 260 ft |
| Dam Type | Gravity |
| Max Storage | 508 acre-ft |
| Normal Storage | 450 acre-ft |
| Surface Area | 37 acres |
| Drainage Area | 97 sq mi |
| Year Completed | 1926 (100 years old) |
| NID ID | KY00070 |
Safety Information
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?
Ownership
LAUREL COUNTY WATER DISTRICT #2
Private
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Low Hazard 24 ftFrequently Asked Questions
What is the hazard classification of Dorthae Dam?
Dorthae Dam 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 Dorthae Dam?
Dorthae Dam is owned by LAUREL COUNTY WATER DISTRICT #2 (Private). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.
When was Dorthae Dam built?
Dorthae Dam was completed in 1926, making it 100 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 Dorthae Dam?
Dorthae Dam 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 Dorthae Dam?
Dorthae Dam has a dam height of 33 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 Dorthae Dam last inspected?
Dorthae Dam was last inspected on January 26, 2017. Inspection dates indicate when a formal review occurred, not the results of that inspection.