Shawnee Fossil Plant - Ash Disposal Area Perimeter Dike Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 8, 2025

The Shawnee Fossil Plant - Ash Disposal Area Perimeter Dike in Paducah, Kentucky, is a crucial structure owned and operated by the Tennessee Valley Authority.


°F

°F

mph

Wind

%

Humidity

Summary

This Earth-type dam, standing at a height of 38 feet and spanning a length of 13,821 feet, was completed in 1957 to serve various purposes related to ash disposal. With a storage capacity of 550 acre-feet and a significant hazard potential, this dike plays a vital role in managing the byproducts of the Shawnee Fossil Plant.

The dam, located off the Ohio River, is designed to handle a maximum discharge of 283 cubic feet per second through an uncontrolled spillway. Despite its age, the structure underwent hydraulic and structural modifications in 2012 to ensure its continued efficacy. The dam's inspection frequency is once per year, with the last evaluation conducted in August 2020. While the condition assessment is currently not available, the risk assessment categorizes the dam as moderate, with a DSAC risk score of 3.

Overall, the Shawnee Fossil Plant - Ash Disposal Area Perimeter Dike stands as a critical component of the Tennessee Valley Authority's infrastructure, serving a vital role in ash management and environmental protection. As a federally owned and operated structure, it exemplifies the commitment to safety and regulatory compliance that is essential in safeguarding water resources and mitigating the impacts of climate change in the region.

Years Modified

2012 - Hydraulic, 2012 - Structural

Year Completed

1957

Dam Length

13821

Dam Height

38

River Or Stream

OHIO RIVER - OFFSTREAM

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

142

Hydraulic Height

28

Drainage Area

0.64

Nid Storage

550

Structural Height

38

Outlet Gates

Uncontrolled

Hazard Potential

Significant

Foundations

Soil

Nid Height

38
       
Seasonal Comparison

Weather Forecast

Dam Data Reference

Condition Assessment

Satisfactory
No existing or potential dam safety deficiencies are recognized. Acceptable performance is expected under all loading conditions (static, hydrologic, seismic) in accordance with the minimum applicable state or federal regulatory criteria or tolerable risk guidelines.
Fair
No existing dam safety deficiencies are recognized for normal operating conditions. Rare or extreme hydrologic and/or seismic events may result in a dam safety deficiency. Risk may be in the range to take further action. Note: Rare or extreme event is defined by the regulatory agency based on their minimum
Poor A dam safety deficiency is recognized for normal operating conditions which may realistically occur. Remedial action is necessary. POOR may also be used when uncertainties exist as to critical analysis parameters which identify a potential dam safety deficiency. Investigations and studies are necessary.
Unsatisfactory
A dam safety deficiency is recognized that requires immediate or emergency remedial action for problem resolution.
Not Rated
The dam has not been inspected, is not under state or federal jurisdiction, or has been inspected but, for whatever reason, has not been rated.
Not Available
Dams for which the condition assessment is restricted to approved government users.

Hazard Potential Classification

High
Dams assigned the high hazard potential classification are those where failure or mis-operation will probably cause loss of human life.
Significant
Dams assigned the significant hazard potential classification are those dams where failure or mis-operation results in no probable loss of human life but can cause economic loss, environment damage, disruption of lifeline facilities, or impact other concerns. Significant hazard potential classification dams are often located in predominantly rural or agricultural areas but could be in areas with population and significant infrastructure.
Low
Dams assigned the low hazard potential classification are those where failure or mis-operation results in no probable loss of human life and low economic and/or environmental losses. Losses are principally limited to the owner's property.
Undetermined
Dams for which a downstream hazard potential has not been designated or is not provided.
Not Available
Dams for which the downstream hazard potential is restricted to approved government users.