Vulcan Quarry Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Vulcan Quarry Dam, also known as Vulcan Quarry Detention Basin, is a vital infrastructure located in Jefferson, Kentucky, designed by Richard Storm.


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Summary

Completed in 2000, this earth-type dam stands at 16 feet in height and spans 265 feet in length, serving the primary purpose of flood risk reduction in the region. With a storage capacity of 690 acre-feet and a surface area of 40.4 acres, this dam plays a critical role in managing water resources and mitigating potential hazards.

Managed by the Kentucky Division of Water, Vulcan Quarry Dam is subject to regular inspections and enforcement to ensure its structural integrity and functionality. The dam's hazard potential is classified as significant, but its condition assessment as of March 2018 was reported as satisfactory. Despite moderate risk, the dam meets guidelines and has not required emergency action planning or inundation maps preparation to date. Overall, Vulcan Quarry Dam stands as a key component of water resource management in Kentucky, contributing to the region's resilience against flood events and safeguarding the surrounding communities.

As water resource and climate enthusiasts, understanding the significance of infrastructure like Vulcan Quarry Dam is crucial in appreciating the intricate balance of water management and environmental protection. With its strategic location and design, this dam exemplifies the proactive measures taken by local governments to address flood risk and ensure sustainable water usage. By staying informed about the operation, condition, and regulatory oversight of dams like Vulcan Quarry, enthusiasts can actively contribute to the conversation on water resource management and climate resilience in their communities.

Year Completed

2000

Dam Length

265

Dam Height

16

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

40.4

Drainage Area

3

Nid Storage

690

Hazard Potential

Significant

Nid Height

16
       
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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.