Fordsville Lake Dam
Key Takeaway
Fordsville Lake Dam is classified as high hazard in Kentucky. It was completed in 1963 and is 63 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 | 35 ft (taller than 63.7% in KY) |
| Dam Length | 600 ft |
| Dam Type | Earth |
| Max Storage | 230 acre-ft |
| Normal Storage | 157 acre-ft |
| Surface Area | 8 acres |
| Drainage Area | 1 sq mi |
| Year Completed | 1963 (63 years old) |
| NID ID | KY00289 |
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 FORDSVILLE
Local Government
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Low Hazard 20 ftFrequently Asked Questions
What is the hazard classification of Fordsville Lake Dam?
Fordsville 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 Fordsville Lake Dam?
Fordsville Lake Dam is owned by CITY OF FORDSVILLE (Local Government). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.
When was Fordsville Lake Dam built?
Fordsville Lake Dam was completed in 1963, making it 63 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 Fordsville Lake Dam?
Fordsville 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 Fordsville Lake Dam?
Fordsville Lake Dam has a dam height of 35 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 Fordsville Lake Dam last inspected?
Fordsville Lake Dam was last inspected on February 2, 2023. Inspection dates indicate when a formal review occurred, not the results of that inspection.