John Smith Dam
Key Takeaway
John Smith Dam is classified as low hazard in Kentucky. It was completed in 1959 and is 67 years old. Its primary use is other.
Physical Details
| Dam Height | 29 ft (taller than 46.4% in KY) |
| Dam Length | 510 ft |
| Dam Type | Earth |
| Max Storage | 86 acre-ft |
| Normal Storage | 81 acre-ft |
| Surface Area | 12 acres |
| Drainage Area | 1 sq mi |
| Year Completed | 1959 (67 years old) |
| NID ID | KY00552 |
Safety Information
No probable loss of human life and low economic/environmental losses expected.
Hazard potential describes downstream consequences of failure, not the dam's current condition. What does this mean?
Ownership
RUTH D. RICHARDSON
Private
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Significant Hazard 25 ftFrequently Asked Questions
What is the hazard classification of John Smith Dam?
John Smith Dam is classified as Low Hazard. No probable loss of human life and low economic/environmental losses expected. This classification refers to the potential downstream consequences of a failure, not the dam's current structural condition.
Who owns and operates John Smith Dam?
John Smith Dam is owned by RUTH D. RICHARDSON (Private). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.
When was John Smith Dam built?
John Smith Dam was completed in 1959, making it 67 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 John Smith Dam?
John Smith Dam serves the following purposes: Other. Many dams in the U.S. are multi-purpose, supporting flood control, water supply, recreation, and other uses.
How tall is John Smith Dam?
John Smith Dam has a dam height of 29 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 John Smith Dam last inspected?
John Smith Dam was last inspected on August 12, 2007. Inspection dates indicate when a formal review occurred, not the results of that inspection.