Ky River Lock & Dam 5 Reservoir Report
Nearby: Matthews Dam Stonestreet Farm Dam
Last Updated: December 5, 2025
Ky River Lock & Dam 5, located in Woodford, Kentucky, along the Kentucky River, was completed in 1844 and serves as a recreational site for water enthusiasts and nature lovers.
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Summary
The dam, built using timber crib construction, stands at a height of 36 feet and has a storage capacity of 17,390 acre-feet, with a normal storage level of 7,500 acre-feet. The dam's primary purpose is for recreation, offering opportunities for boating, fishing, and other water-based activities.
Managed by the Kentucky Division of Water, Ky River Lock & Dam 5 is inspected regularly to ensure its safety and functionality, with the last inspection conducted in October 2015. The dam has a low hazard potential and a moderate risk assessment rating of 3, indicating a manageable level of risk. With its uncontrolled spillway and associated structures, the dam provides an important resource for water management in the region and contributes to the overall ecological health of the Kentucky River.
Situated within the Louisville District of the US Army Corps of Engineers, Ky River Lock & Dam 5 is a historic structure that continues to play a vital role in water resource management and recreation in the area. With its scenic location and recreational opportunities, the dam serves as a popular destination for visitors and locals alike, highlighting the importance of water infrastructure in supporting both human activities and natural ecosystems.
Year Completed |
1844 |
Dam Length |
594 |
Dam Height |
36 |
River Or Stream |
KENTUCKY RIVER |
Primary Dam Type |
Timber Crib |
Drainage Area |
5225 |
Nid Storage |
17390 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Nid Height |
36 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
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.
Ky River Lock & Dam 5