Kentucky River Lock & Dam 9
Key Takeaway
Kentucky River Lock & Dam 9 is classified as high hazard in Kentucky. It was completed in 1907 and is 119 years old. Its primary use is navigation. 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 | 36 ft (taller than 66.5% in KY) |
| Dam Length | 294 ft |
| Dam Type | Concrete |
| Max Storage | 15.0K acre-ft |
| Normal Storage | 16.0K acre-ft |
| Drainage Area | 4,101 sq mi |
| Year Completed | 1907 (119 years old) |
| NID ID | KY01202 |
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
COMMONWEALTH OF KENTUCKY
State Government
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Low Hazard 18 ftDuncan Nave Dam
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High Hazard 15 ftFrequently Asked Questions
What is the hazard classification of Kentucky River Lock & Dam 9?
Kentucky River Lock & Dam 9 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 Kentucky River Lock & Dam 9?
Kentucky River Lock & Dam 9 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 & Dam 9 built?
Kentucky River Lock & Dam 9 was completed in 1907, making it 119 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 & Dam 9?
Kentucky River Lock & Dam 9 serves the following purposes: Navigation. Many dams in the U.S. are multi-purpose, supporting flood control, water supply, recreation, and other uses.
How tall is Kentucky River Lock & Dam 9?
Kentucky River Lock & Dam 9 has a dam height of 36 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 Kentucky River Lock & Dam 9 last inspected?
Kentucky River Lock & Dam 9 was last inspected on June 14, 2023. Inspection dates indicate when a formal review occurred, not the results of that inspection.