Nortonville Lake Dam
Key Takeaway
Nortonville Lake Dam is classified as high hazard in Kentucky. It was completed in 1940 and is 86 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 | 17 ft (taller than 5% in KY) |
| Dam Length | 700 ft |
| Dam Type | Earth |
| Max Storage | 233 acre-ft |
| Normal Storage | 120 acre-ft |
| Surface Area | 27 acres |
| Drainage Area | 0 sq mi |
| Year Completed | 1940 (86 years old) |
| NID ID | KY00157 |
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 NORTONVILLE
Local Government
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Low Hazard 25 ftFrequently Asked Questions
What is the hazard classification of Nortonville Lake Dam?
Nortonville 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 Nortonville Lake Dam?
Nortonville Lake Dam is owned by CITY OF NORTONVILLE (Local Government). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.
When was Nortonville Lake Dam built?
Nortonville Lake Dam was completed in 1940, making it 86 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 Nortonville Lake Dam?
Nortonville 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 Nortonville Lake Dam?
Nortonville Lake Dam has a dam height of 17 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 Nortonville Lake Dam last inspected?
Nortonville Lake Dam was last inspected on June 4, 2024. Inspection dates indicate when a formal review occurred, not the results of that inspection.