Lake Nevin Dam
Key Takeaway
Lake Nevin Dam is classified as high hazard in Kentucky. It was completed in 1950 and is 76 years old. Its primary use is recreation. 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 | 28 ft (taller than 41.6% in KY) |
| Dam Length | 1,000 ft |
| Dam Type | Earth |
| Max Storage | 585 acre-ft |
| Normal Storage | 355 acre-ft |
| Surface Area | 31 acres |
| Drainage Area | 1 sq mi |
| Year Completed | 1950 (76 years old) |
| NID ID | KY00092 |
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
BERNHEIM ARBORETUM & RESEARCH FOREST
Private
Nearby Dams
Jim Beam Distillery Dam(New)
Bullitt, KY
Significant Hazard 40 ftJim Beam Distillery (Clermont) Dam
Bullitt, KY
Significant Hazard 19 ftBullitt County Sportsmens Club Dam
Bullitt, KY
High Hazard 35 ftHidden Valley Camp Dam
Bullitt, KY
High Hazard 40 ftScuffletown Hollow Dam
Bullitt, KY
Low Hazard 38 ftCrescendo Camp Lake Dam
Bullitt, KY
Low Hazard 17 ftHickory Hill Lake
Bullitt, KY
Low Hazard 21 ftLotus Lake Dam (Upper)
Bullitt, KY
Significant Hazard 42 ftFrequently Asked Questions
What is the hazard classification of Lake Nevin Dam?
Lake Nevin Dam 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 Lake Nevin Dam?
Lake Nevin Dam is owned by BERNHEIM ARBORETUM & RESEARCH FOREST (Private). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.
When was Lake Nevin Dam built?
Lake Nevin Dam was completed in 1950, making it 76 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 Nevin Dam?
Lake Nevin Dam serves the following purposes: Recreation. Many dams in the U.S. are multi-purpose, supporting flood control, water supply, recreation, and other uses.
How tall is Lake Nevin Dam?
Lake Nevin Dam has a dam height of 28 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 Nevin Dam last inspected?
Lake Nevin Dam was last inspected on June 6, 2024. Inspection dates indicate when a formal review occurred, not the results of that inspection.