Yatesville Dam

BLAINE CREEK· Lawrence, Kentucky· Built 1988· Rockfill·

Key Takeaway

Yatesville Dam is classified as high hazard in Kentucky. It was completed in 1988 and is 38 years old. Its primary use is flood risk reduction. 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 Length855 ft
Dam TypeRockfill
Max Storage83.3K acre-ft
Normal Storage38.1K acre-ft
Surface Area2,242 acres
Drainage Area208 sq mi
Max Discharge63,000 cfs
Year Completed1988 (38 years old)
NID IDKY03065

Safety Information

High Hazard

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?

Emergency Action Plan: Yes
Last Inspection: September 14, 2023
State Regulated: No

Ownership

USACE - Huntington District

Federal Government

Nearby Dams

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the hazard classification of Yatesville Dam?

Yatesville 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 Yatesville Dam?

Yatesville Dam is owned by USACE - Huntington District (Federal Government). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.

When was Yatesville Dam built?

Yatesville Dam was completed in 1988, making it 38 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 Yatesville Dam?

Yatesville Dam serves the following purposes: Flood Risk Reduction, Other, Fish And Wildlife Pond, Recreation. Many dams in the U.S. are multi-purpose, supporting flood control, water supply, recreation, and other uses.

When was Yatesville Dam last inspected?

Yatesville Dam was last inspected on September 14, 2023. 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.