Fishtrap Dam

LEVISA FORK OF BIG SANDY RIVER· Pike, Kentucky· Built 1969· Rockfill·

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

Key Takeaway

Fishtrap Dam is classified as high hazard in Kentucky. It was completed in 1969 and is 57 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	1,100 ft
Dam Type	Rockfill
Max Storage	164.4K acre-ft
Normal Storage	37.7K acre-ft

Surface Area	1,131 acres
Drainage Area	392 sq mi
Max Discharge	298,200 cfs
Year Completed	1969 (57 years old)
NID ID	KY03028

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: October 27, 2022

State Regulated: No

Ownership

USACE - Huntington District

Federal Government

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Frequently Asked Questions

What is the hazard classification of Fishtrap Dam?

Fishtrap 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 Fishtrap Dam?

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

When was Fishtrap Dam built?

Fishtrap Dam was completed in 1969, making it 57 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 Fishtrap Dam?

Fishtrap Dam serves the following purposes: Flood Risk Reduction, Other, 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 Fishtrap Dam last inspected?

Fishtrap Dam was last inspected on October 27, 2022. 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.