Kentucky River Lock and Dam 3
Key Takeaway
Kentucky River Lock and Dam 3 is classified as significant hazard in Kentucky. It was completed in 1844 and is 182 years old. Its primary use is navigation. Significant hazard means failure could cause economic or environmental damage. Learn more.
Physical Details
| Dam Length | 503 ft |
| Dam Type | Timber Crib |
| Max Storage | 19.6K acre-ft |
| Normal Storage | 9.5K acre-ft |
| Surface Area | 1,220 acres |
| Drainage Area | 5,983 sq mi |
| Max Discharge | 7,500 cfs |
| Year Completed | 1844 (182 years old) |
| NID ID | KY03015 |
Safety Information
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?
Ownership
Commonwealth of Kentucky
State Government
Nearby Dams
Elmer Davis Lake Dam
Owen, KY
Significant Hazard 68 ftSand Ripple Farm Lake Dam
Franklin, KY
Low Hazard 25 ftKentucky River Lock and Dam 2
Henry, KY
Low HazardNeville Downey Lake
Henry, KY
Low Hazard 28 ftThomas Lakes (Lower) Dam
Owen, KY
Low Hazard 30 ftThomas Lakes (Upper) Dam
Owen, KY
Low Hazard 29 ftElk Lake Club Water Supply Dam
Owen, KY
Low Hazard 24 ftHc Wildlife Dam
Henry, KY
Low Hazard 27 ftFrequently Asked Questions
What is the hazard classification of Kentucky River Lock and Dam 3?
Kentucky River Lock and Dam 3 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 Kentucky River Lock and Dam 3?
Kentucky River Lock and Dam 3 is owned by Commonwealth of Kentucky (State Government). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.
When was Kentucky River Lock and Dam 3 built?
Kentucky River Lock and Dam 3 was completed in 1844, making it 182 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 Kentucky River Lock and Dam 3?
Kentucky River Lock and Dam 3 serves the following purposes: Navigation, Fish And Wildlife Pond, Recreation, Water Supply. Many dams in the U.S. are multi-purpose, supporting flood control, water supply, recreation, and other uses.
When was Kentucky River Lock and Dam 3 last inspected?
Kentucky River Lock and Dam 3 was last inspected on October 27, 2016. Inspection dates indicate when a formal review occurred, not the results of that inspection.