Franklin Dam

WEST FORK DRAKES CREEK· Simpson, Kentucky· Built 1975· Gravity· 15 ft tall
Significant Hazard Water Supply Local Government

Key Takeaway

Franklin Dam is classified as significant hazard in Kentucky. It was completed in 1975 and is 51 years old. Its primary use is water supply. Significant hazard means failure could cause economic or environmental damage. Learn more.

Physical Details

Dam Height 15 ft (taller than 2.5% in KY)
Dam Length650 ft
Dam TypeGravity
Max Storage158 acre-ft
Drainage Area108 sq mi
Year Completed1975 (51 years old)
NID IDKY00321

Safety Information

Significant Hazard

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?

Emergency Action Plan: No
Last Inspection: July 19, 2016
State Regulated: Yes
Regulatory Agency: KY Division of Water

Ownership

CITY OF FRANKLIN

Local Government

Nearby Dams

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the hazard classification of Franklin Dam?

Franklin 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 Franklin Dam?

Franklin Dam is owned by CITY OF FRANKLIN (Local Government). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.

When was Franklin Dam built?

Franklin Dam was completed in 1975, making it 51 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 Franklin Dam?

Franklin 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 Franklin Dam?

Franklin Dam has a dam height of 15 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 Franklin Dam last inspected?

Franklin Dam was last inspected on July 19, 2016. 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.