Loch Mary Reservoir Dam
Key Takeaway
Loch Mary Reservoir Dam is classified as high hazard in Kentucky. It was completed in 1950 and is 76 years old. Its primary use is water supply. 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 | 27 ft (taller than 37.3% in KY) |
| Dam Length | 1,300 ft |
| Dam Type | Earth |
| Max Storage | 2.4K acre-ft |
| Normal Storage | 1.5K acre-ft |
| Surface Area | 148 acres |
| Drainage Area | 4 sq mi |
| Year Completed | 1950 (76 years old) |
| NID ID | KY00148 |
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
CITY OF EARLINGTON
Local Government
Nearby Dams
Stewart Creek FRS No 1
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Low Hazard 19 ftStewart Creek FRS No 2
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High Hazard 25 ftMadisonville Reservoir Dam No 3 (South)
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Low Hazard 30 ftMadisonville Reservoir Dam No 1 (North)
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Significant Hazard 22 ftMadisonville Reservoir Dam No 2
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Significant Hazard 30 ftMortons Gap Reservoir Dam
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High Hazard 25 ftFrequently Asked Questions
What is the hazard classification of Loch Mary Reservoir Dam?
Loch Mary Reservoir 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 Loch Mary Reservoir Dam?
Loch Mary Reservoir Dam is owned by CITY OF EARLINGTON (Local Government). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.
When was Loch Mary Reservoir Dam built?
Loch Mary Reservoir 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 Loch Mary Reservoir Dam?
Loch Mary Reservoir Dam serves the following purposes: Water Supply. Many dams in the U.S. are multi-purpose, supporting flood control, water supply, recreation, and other uses.
How tall is Loch Mary Reservoir Dam?
Loch Mary Reservoir Dam has a dam height of 27 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 Loch Mary Reservoir Dam last inspected?
Loch Mary Reservoir Dam was last inspected on July 14, 2023. Inspection dates indicate when a formal review occurred, not the results of that inspection.