Elkhorn Lake Dam
Key Takeaway
Elkhorn Lake Dam is classified as high hazard in Kentucky. It was completed in 1912 and is 114 years old. Its primary use is water supply. 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 | 40 ft (taller than 72.8% in KY) |
| Dam Length | 225 ft |
| Dam Type | Gravity |
| Max Storage | 300 acre-ft |
| Normal Storage | 249 acre-ft |
| Surface Area | 16 acres |
| Drainage Area | 3 sq mi |
| Year Completed | 1912 (114 years old) |
| NID ID | KY00113 |
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
CITY OF JENKINS
Local Government
Nearby Dams
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Unknown 38 ftFrequently Asked Questions
What is the hazard classification of Elkhorn Lake Dam?
Elkhorn 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 Elkhorn Lake Dam?
Elkhorn Lake Dam is owned by CITY OF JENKINS (Local Government). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.
When was Elkhorn Lake Dam built?
Elkhorn Lake Dam was completed in 1912, making it 114 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 Elkhorn Lake Dam?
Elkhorn Lake 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 Elkhorn Lake Dam?
Elkhorn Lake Dam has a dam height of 40 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 Elkhorn Lake Dam last inspected?
Elkhorn Lake Dam was last inspected on May 17, 2023. Inspection dates indicate when a formal review occurred, not the results of that inspection.