Walter Smith Lake Dam
Key Takeaway
Walter Smith Lake Dam is classified as significant hazard in Kentucky. It was completed in 1973 and is 53 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 | 842 ft |
| Dam Type | Earth |
| Max Storage | 165 acre-ft |
| Normal Storage | 69 acre-ft |
| Surface Area | 6 acres |
| Drainage Area | 0 sq mi |
| Year Completed | 1973 (53 years old) |
| NID ID | KY00945 |
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
BUCK HAVEN INC
Private
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Low Hazard 13 ftFrequently Asked Questions
What is the hazard classification of Walter Smith Lake Dam?
Walter Smith 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 Walter Smith Lake Dam?
Walter Smith Lake Dam is owned by BUCK HAVEN INC (Private). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.
When was Walter Smith Lake Dam built?
Walter Smith Lake Dam was completed in 1973, making it 53 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 Walter Smith Lake Dam?
Walter Smith 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 Walter Smith Lake Dam?
Walter Smith 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 Walter Smith Lake Dam last inspected?
Walter Smith Lake Dam was last inspected on April 11, 2017. Inspection dates indicate when a formal review occurred, not the results of that inspection.