Wolf Creek Dam
Key Takeaway
Wolf Creek Dam is classified as high hazard in Kentucky. It was completed in 1951 and is 75 years old. Its primary use is hydroelectric. 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 Length | 5,736 ft |
| Dam Type | Gravity |
| Max Storage | 6.1M acre-ft |
| Normal Storage | 2.1M acre-ft |
| Surface Area | 50,250 acres |
| Drainage Area | 5,789 sq mi |
| Max Discharge | 553,000 cfs |
| Year Completed | 1951 (75 years old) |
| NID ID | KY03010 |
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
USACE - Nashville District
Federal Government
Nearby Dams
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the hazard classification of Wolf Creek Dam?
Wolf Creek 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 Wolf Creek Dam?
Wolf Creek Dam is owned by USACE - Nashville District (Federal Government). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.
When was Wolf Creek Dam built?
Wolf Creek Dam was completed in 1951, making it 75 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 Wolf Creek Dam?
Wolf Creek Dam serves the following purposes: Hydroelectric, Other, Recreation, Water Supply, Flood Risk Reduction. Many dams in the U.S. are multi-purpose, supporting flood control, water supply, recreation, and other uses.
When was Wolf Creek Dam last inspected?
Wolf Creek Dam was last inspected on September 15, 2020. Inspection dates indicate when a formal review occurred, not the results of that inspection.