John Smith Dam, also known as Smith Lake, is a private dam located in Cloverport, Kentucky.
Wind
Humidity
Completed in 1959, this earth dam stands at 29 feet tall and spans 510 feet in length, providing a storage capacity of 86.1 acre-feet. The dam is situated on the TR-Beech Fork of Clover Fork river, within the Louisville District of the US Army Corps of Engineers.
With a primary purpose classified as "Other", John Smith Dam serves various functions beyond flood control and water storage. Although its hazard potential is rated as low, the dam is regulated by the Kentucky Division of Water and undergoes regular inspections to ensure its structural integrity. Despite being in operation for decades, the dam remains in a condition that is not yet rated, highlighting the importance of ongoing maintenance and risk management.
Enthusiasts of water resources and climate will find John Smith Dam to be an intriguing structure due to its unique design and location. As a private dam in a picturesque setting, it offers a glimpse into the intersection of human engineering and natural landscapes, showcasing the vital role that such infrastructure plays in managing water resources and mitigating risks associated with flooding.
Year Completed |
1959 |
Dam Length |
510 |
Dam Height |
29 |
River Or Stream |
TR-BEECH FORK OF CLOVER FORK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
11.9 |
Drainage Area |
0.57 |
Nid Storage |
86.1 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Nid Height |
29 |
| Location | Reservations | Toilets |
|---|---|---|
Rough River State Park
|
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German Ridge
|
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Axtel - Rough River Lake
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