Kenspar Mining Tailings Dam Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 8, 2025
The Kenspar Mining Tailings Dam, located in Dycusburg, Kentucky, stands as a historic structure completed in 1960 with a primary purpose that goes beyond traditional water resource management.
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Summary
This private-owned Earth dam spans 1000 feet in length and reaches a height of 53 feet, holding a storage capacity of 229.4 acre-feet with a surface area of 12.3 acres. While classified with a low hazard potential, the dam's risk assessment rates at a moderate level, urging a closer look at potential vulnerabilities and management measures.
Managed by the Kentucky Division of Water, the Kenspar Mining Tailings Dam is subject to state regulatory agencies for permitting, inspection, and enforcement. Despite its condition assessment being labeled as 'Not Rated,' the dam maintains a steady presence in the local ecosystem, situated near the TR-Dry Fork river and within the Crittenden County landscape. With an updated inspection frequency of every 5 years, the dam's risk management strategy remains to be outlined, prompting further attention to its emergency action plan preparedness and overall risk mitigation strategies.
For water resource and climate enthusiasts, the Kenspar Mining Tailings Dam serves as a unique case study that goes beyond conventional dam management practices. With a blend of historical significance, private ownership, and environmental considerations, this Earth dam embodies a balance between industrial heritage and modern regulatory frameworks. As stakeholders navigate the complexities of dam safety and risk assessment, the Kenspar Mining Tailings Dam stands as a focal point for ongoing monitoring, inspection, and potential enhancements to its overall resilience in the face of changing climate dynamics.
Year Completed |
1960 |
Dam Length |
1000 |
Dam Height |
53 |
River Or Stream |
TR-DRY FORK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
12.3 |
Drainage Area |
0.41 |
Nid Storage |
229.4 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Nid Height |
53 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Tradewater River At Olney
|
36cfs |
Lusk Creek Near Eddyville
|
5cfs |
Ohio River At Old Shawneetown
|
259000cfs |
Massac Creek Near Paducah
|
2cfs |
Ohio River At Metropolis
|
444000cfs |
Little River Near Cadiz
|
485cfs |
Dam Data Reference
Condition Assessment
SatisfactoryNo 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
HighDams 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.
Kenspar Mining Tailings Dam