Vulcan Quarry Dam

Jefferson, Kentucky· Built 2000· Earth· 16 ft tall
Significant Hazard Flood Risk Reduction Local Government

Key Takeaway

Vulcan Quarry Dam is classified as significant hazard in Kentucky. It was completed in 2000 and is 26 years old. Its primary use is flood risk reduction. Significant hazard means failure could cause economic or environmental damage. Learn more.

Physical Details

Dam Height 16 ft (taller than 4.2% in KY)
Dam Length265 ft
Dam TypeEarth
Max Storage690 acre-ft
Normal Storage0 acre-ft
Surface Area40 acres
Drainage Area3 sq mi
Year Completed2000 (26 years old)
NID IDKY01174

Safety Information

Significant Hazard

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?

Emergency Action Plan: No
Last Inspection: March 5, 2018
State Regulated: Yes
Regulatory Agency: KY Division of Water

Ownership

LOUISVILLE METROPOLITAN SEWER DISTRICT

Local Government

Nearby Dams

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the hazard classification of Vulcan Quarry Dam?

Vulcan Quarry 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 Vulcan Quarry Dam?

Vulcan Quarry Dam is owned by LOUISVILLE METROPOLITAN SEWER DISTRICT (Local Government). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.

When was Vulcan Quarry Dam built?

Vulcan Quarry Dam was completed in 2000, making it 26 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 Vulcan Quarry Dam?

Vulcan Quarry Dam serves the following purposes: Flood Risk Reduction. Many dams in the U.S. are multi-purpose, supporting flood control, water supply, recreation, and other uses.

How tall is Vulcan Quarry Dam?

Vulcan Quarry Dam has a dam height of 16 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 Vulcan Quarry Dam last inspected?

Vulcan Quarry Dam was last inspected on March 5, 2018. Inspection dates indicate when a formal review occurred, not the results of that inspection.

Data from the National Inventory of Dams (NID) maintained by the US Army Corps of Engineers. Dam conditions may have changed since the last update. This site is not affiliated with USACE. Do not use for emergency planning — contact your local dam safety program.