City Of Fort Wright Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

The City of Fort Wright Dam, also known as Fort Wright Detention Lake, serves as a vital water supply resource for the local government in Kentucky.


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Summary

Constructed in 2004 by JAMES W BERLING ENGINEERING, this earth dam stands at 33 feet high and spans 120 feet in length, with a storage capacity of 19 acre-feet. Situated on the HORSE BR stream in Kenton County, Kentucky, this dam plays a crucial role in managing water resources and ensuring a stable supply for the community.

Designated as a significant hazard potential structure, the City of Fort Wright Dam has been rated as being in satisfactory condition as of the last inspection in April 2017. The dam features an uncontrolled spillway with a width of 23 feet, and is regulated by the KY Division of Water, with state permitting, inspection, and enforcement in place. The risk assessment for this dam is moderate, with a frequency of inspection every three years to ensure its continued safe operation and management.

The City of Fort Wright Dam is a testament to the importance of water resource management and infrastructure in mitigating climate-related challenges. As a key element in the local water supply system, this dam showcases the engineering expertise and regulatory oversight required to maintain safe and efficient water storage facilities. With its role in providing water security for the community, the City of Fort Wright Dam stands as a crucial asset in the face of evolving climate conditions and the need for sustainable water management practices.

Year Completed

2004

Dam Length

120

Dam Height

33

River Or Stream

HORSE BR

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

1.2

Drainage Area

0.25

Nid Storage

19

Hazard Potential

Significant

Nid Height

33
       
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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.