Scenic Lake Dam
Key Takeaway
Scenic Lake 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 | 25 ft (taller than 27% in KY) |
| Dam Length | 300 ft |
| Dam Type | Earth |
| Max Storage | 359 acre-ft |
| Normal Storage | 220 acre-ft |
| Surface Area | 18 acres |
| Drainage Area | 0 sq mi |
| Max Discharge | 706 cfs |
| Year Completed | 1950 (76 years old) |
| NID ID | KY00012 |
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
COMMONWEALTH OF KENTUCKY
State Government
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High Hazard 35 ftFrequently Asked Questions
What is the hazard classification of Scenic Lake Dam?
Scenic 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 Scenic Lake Dam?
Scenic Lake Dam is owned by COMMONWEALTH OF KENTUCKY (State Government). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.
When was Scenic Lake Dam built?
Scenic Lake 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 Scenic Lake Dam?
Scenic 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 Scenic Lake Dam?
Scenic Lake Dam has a dam height of 25 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 Scenic Lake Dam last inspected?
Scenic Lake Dam was last inspected on February 2, 2023. Inspection dates indicate when a formal review occurred, not the results of that inspection.