Kentucky River Lock & Dam 6 Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 6, 2025

Kentucky River Lock & Dam 6, located in Mercer County, Kentucky, is a historic timber crib dam completed in 1891 for the primary purpose of navigation on the Kentucky River.


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Summary

This structure stands at a height of 34 feet and spans a length of 465 feet, with a normal storage capacity of 12,000 acre-feet and a maximum storage of 16,310 acre-feet. The dam is regulated and inspected by the Kentucky Division of Water, ensuring its safe operation and maintenance.

Despite its age, Kentucky River Lock & Dam 6 has a low hazard potential and is currently rated as "Not Rated" in terms of condition assessment. The dam serves as a vital component of the river's infrastructure, supporting navigation and water resource management in the region. While the risk assessment indicates a moderate level of risk, the structure continues to meet regulatory guidelines and plays a key role in managing the flow of the Kentucky River.

With its historical significance and ongoing functionality, Kentucky River Lock & Dam 6 stands as a testament to the engineering achievements of the past and the importance of maintaining water infrastructure for the benefit of both navigation and climate management. As a part of the Louisville District, this dam remains a crucial element in the water resource system of Kentucky, contributing to the overall sustainability and resilience of the region's waterways.

Year Completed

1891

Dam Length

465

Dam Height

34

River Or Stream

KENTUCKY RIVER

Primary Dam Type

Timber Crib

Drainage Area

5102

Nid Storage

16310

Hazard Potential

Low

Nid Height

34
       
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.