Smokey Valley Dam
Key Takeaway
Smokey Valley Dam is classified as significant hazard in Kentucky. It was completed in 1953 and is 73 years old. Its primary use is recreation. Significant hazard means failure could cause economic or environmental damage. Learn more.
Physical Details
| Dam Height | 37 ft (taller than 67.7% in KY) |
| Dam Length | 260 ft |
| Dam Type | Earth |
| Max Storage | 845 acre-ft |
| Normal Storage | 367 acre-ft |
| Surface Area | 35 acres |
| Drainage Area | 13 sq mi |
| Year Completed | 1953 (73 years old) |
| NID ID | KY00037 |
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
COMMONWEALTH OF KENTUCKY
State Government
Nearby Dams
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the hazard classification of Smokey Valley Dam?
Smokey Valley 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 Smokey Valley Dam?
Smokey Valley Dam is owned by COMMONWEALTH OF KENTUCKY (State Government). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.
When was Smokey Valley Dam built?
Smokey Valley Dam was completed in 1953, making it 73 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 Smokey Valley Dam?
Smokey Valley 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 Smokey Valley Dam?
Smokey Valley Dam has a dam height of 37 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 Smokey Valley Dam last inspected?
Smokey Valley Dam was last inspected on April 18, 2024. Inspection dates indicate when a formal review occurred, not the results of that inspection.