Fern Lake Dam
Key Takeaway
Fern Lake Dam is classified as high hazard in Kentucky. It was completed in 1890 and is 136 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 | 53 ft (taller than 85.5% in KY) |
| Dam Length | 1,080 ft |
| Dam Type | Earth |
| Max Storage | 3.3K acre-ft |
| Normal Storage | 900 acre-ft |
| Surface Area | 100 acres |
| Drainage Area | 7 sq mi |
| Year Completed | 1890 (136 years old) |
| NID ID | KY00086 |
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
FERN LAKE COMPANY
Private
Nearby Dams
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the hazard classification of Fern Lake Dam?
Fern 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 Fern Lake Dam?
Fern Lake Dam is owned by FERN LAKE COMPANY (Private). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.
When was Fern Lake Dam built?
Fern Lake Dam was completed in 1890, making it 136 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 Fern Lake Dam?
Fern 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 Fern Lake Dam?
Fern Lake Dam has a dam height of 53 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 Fern Lake Dam last inspected?
Fern Lake Dam was last inspected on March 8, 2023. Inspection dates indicate when a formal review occurred, not the results of that inspection.