Ken Brad Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 13, 2025

Ken Brad is a federally owned dam located in Powell, Kentucky, with a primary purpose of providing water supply.


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Summary

Built in 1955, this earth dam stands at 35 feet tall and stretches 267 feet in length, holding a maximum storage capacity of 75 acre-feet. The dam is regulated by the USDA Forest Service and the Kentucky Division of Water, ensuring that it meets state inspection and enforcement requirements.

The dam's hazard potential is classified as significant, with a very high risk assessment rating. Despite not having a condition assessment rating, it is clear that Ken Brad plays a crucial role in managing water resources in the region. With a controlled spillway and valve outlet gates, the dam is equipped to handle emergency situations, although details on emergency action plans and risk management measures are not readily available. For water resource and climate enthusiasts, Ken Brad serves as a key infrastructure piece in the sustainable management of water supply in Kentucky.

Year Completed

1955

Dam Length

267

Dam Height

35

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

4

Drainage Area

0.33

Nid Storage

75

Structural Height

30

Outlet Gates

Valve

Hazard Potential

Significant

Nid Height

35
       
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.