Melvin Stinson Lake Dam
Key Takeaway
Melvin Stinson Lake Dam is classified as high hazard in Kentucky. It was completed in 1958 and is 68 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 | 39 ft (taller than 71.5% in KY) |
| Dam Length | 430 ft |
| Dam Type | Earth |
| Max Storage | 490 acre-ft |
| Normal Storage | 250 acre-ft |
| Surface Area | 21 acres |
| Drainage Area | 1 sq mi |
| Year Completed | 1958 (68 years old) |
| NID ID | KY00194 |
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 ELKTON
Local Government
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Significant Hazard 69 ftFrequently Asked Questions
What is the hazard classification of Melvin Stinson Lake Dam?
Melvin Stinson Lake 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 Melvin Stinson Lake Dam?
Melvin Stinson Lake Dam is owned by CITY OF ELKTON (Local Government). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.
When was Melvin Stinson Lake Dam built?
Melvin Stinson Lake Dam was completed in 1958, making it 68 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 Melvin Stinson Lake Dam?
Melvin Stinson Lake 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 Melvin Stinson Lake Dam?
Melvin Stinson Lake Dam has a dam height of 39 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 Melvin Stinson Lake Dam last inspected?
Melvin Stinson Lake Dam was last inspected on December 14, 2023. Inspection dates indicate when a formal review occurred, not the results of that inspection.