Lagrange L&N Railroad Lake Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 6, 2025

Lagrange L&N Railroad Lake Dam, located in Oldham, Kentucky, was completed in 1920 by the L&N Railroad and serves as a recreational site for water resource and climate enthusiasts.


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Summary

The dam stands at a height of 22 feet with a length of 380 feet, creating a storage capacity of 260 acre-feet. The dam overlooks the North Fork Currys river and covers a surface area of 17.7 acres, making it a picturesque destination for outdoor activities.

Despite its historical significance, the dam's condition assessment in 2018 revealed poor structural integrity and significant hazard potential. The dam's spillway is uncontrolled, with a width of 38 feet, posing risks in case of overflow. The Kentucky Division of Water regulates and inspects the dam, ensuring compliance with safety standards. With a moderate risk rating, there is a need for ongoing risk management measures to address the dam's deteriorating condition and prevent potential emergencies.

As water resource and climate enthusiasts continue to appreciate the beauty and recreational opportunities offered by Lagrange L&N Railroad Lake Dam, it is important to remain aware of the dam's condition and the associated risks. With a focus on safety and preservation, efforts to maintain and improve the dam's structural integrity are essential to ensure the continued enjoyment of this historic site in Oldham, Kentucky.

Year Completed

1920

Dam Length

380

Dam Height

22

River Or Stream

NORTH FORK CURRYS

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

17.7

Drainage Area

0.82

Nid Storage

260

Hazard Potential

Significant

Nid Height

22
       
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.