Lake Vega
Key Takeaway
Lake Vega is classified as high hazard in Kentucky. It was completed in 1943 and is 83 years old. Its primary use is flood risk reduction. 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 | 48 ft (taller than 82.1% in KY) |
| Dam Length | 890 ft |
| Dam Type | Earth |
| Max Storage | 1.8K acre-ft |
| Normal Storage | 1.8K acre-ft |
| Surface Area | 140 acres |
| Drainage Area | 4 sq mi |
| Year Completed | 1943 (83 years old) |
| Year Modified | 2009 |
| NID ID | KY00028 |
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
Blue Grass Army Depot
Federal Government
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Significant Hazard 35 ftFrequently Asked Questions
What is the hazard classification of Lake Vega?
Lake Vega 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 Vega?
Lake Vega 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 Vega built?
Lake Vega was completed in 1943, making it 83 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 Vega?
Lake Vega serves the following purposes: Flood Risk Reduction, Fire Protection, Stock, Or Small Fish Pond, 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.
How tall is Lake Vega?
Lake Vega has a dam height of 48 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 Vega last inspected?
Lake Vega was last inspected on November 24, 2020. Inspection dates indicate when a formal review occurred, not the results of that inspection.