Lake Gem
Key Takeaway
Lake Gem is classified as low hazard in Kentucky. It was completed in 1974 and is 52 years old. Its primary use is recreation.
Physical Details
| Dam Height | 25 ft (taller than 27% in KY) |
| Dam Length | 500 ft |
| Dam Type | Earth |
| Max Storage | 247 acre-ft |
| Normal Storage | 592 acre-ft |
| Surface Area | 7 acres |
| Year Completed | 1974 (52 years old) |
| Year Modified | 1995 |
| NID ID | KY00849 |
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
Blue Grass Army Depot
Federal Government
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High Hazard 44 ftFrequently Asked Questions
What is the hazard classification of Lake Gem?
Lake Gem 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 Lake Gem?
Lake Gem is owned by Blue Grass Army Depot (Federal Government). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.
When was Lake Gem built?
Lake Gem was completed in 1974, making it 52 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 Lake Gem?
Lake Gem serves the following purposes: Recreation, Fire Protection, Stock, Or Small Fish Pond, Fish And Wildlife Pond. Many dams in the U.S. are multi-purpose, supporting flood control, water supply, recreation, and other uses.
How tall is Lake Gem?
Lake Gem has a dam height of 25 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 Lake Gem last inspected?
Lake Gem was last inspected on November 24, 2020. Inspection dates indicate when a formal review occurred, not the results of that inspection.