Shelby Lake Dam
Key Takeaway
Shelby Lake Dam is classified as significant hazard in Kentucky. It was completed in 1955 and is 71 years old. Its primary use is recreation. Significant hazard means failure could cause economic or environmental damage. Learn more.
Physical Details
| Dam Height | 20 ft (taller than 11.4% in KY) |
| Dam Length | 350 ft |
| Dam Type | Gravity |
| Max Storage | 1.7K acre-ft |
| Normal Storage | 400 acre-ft |
| Surface Area | 57 acres |
| Drainage Area | 21 sq mi |
| Year Completed | 1955 (71 years old) |
| NID ID | KY00087 |
Safety Information
No probable loss of human life, but can cause economic loss, environmental damage, or disruption of lifeline facilities.
Hazard potential describes downstream consequences of failure, not the dam's current condition. What does this mean?
Ownership
CITY OF SHELBYVILLE
Local Government
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What is the hazard classification of Shelby Lake Dam?
Shelby Lake Dam is classified as Significant Hazard. No probable loss of human life, but can cause economic loss, environmental damage, or disruption of lifeline facilities. This classification refers to the potential downstream consequences of a failure, not the dam's current structural condition.
Who owns and operates Shelby Lake Dam?
Shelby Lake Dam is owned by CITY OF SHELBYVILLE (Local Government). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.
When was Shelby Lake Dam built?
Shelby Lake Dam was completed in 1955, making it 71 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 Shelby Lake Dam?
Shelby 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 Shelby Lake Dam?
Shelby Lake Dam has a dam height of 20 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 Shelby Lake Dam last inspected?
Shelby Lake Dam was last inspected on December 6, 2023. Inspection dates indicate when a formal review occurred, not the results of that inspection.