Kentucky River Lock And Dam No. 7 Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 5, 2025
Kentucky River Lock and Dam No.
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Summary
7, located in Estill, Kentucky, was completed in 1906 and serves as a vital structure for hydroelectric purposes on the Kentucky River. With a dam height of 35 feet and a length of 260 feet, it has a normal storage capacity of 6,900 acre-feet and covers a surface area of 579 acres. The dam is regulated by the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission and inspected periodically to ensure its structural integrity.
This significant dam, with its uncontrolled spillway and hazard potential rating of "Significant," plays a crucial role in managing water flow and providing hydroelectric power to the area. The Kentucky River Lock and Dam No. 7 is part of the Louisville District and falls under the jurisdiction of the Kentucky Division of Water, which oversees its permitting, inspection, and enforcement. The risk assessment for this dam is moderate, highlighting the importance of ongoing risk management measures to ensure the safety and effectiveness of this vital water resource infrastructure.
As a key component of the water management system on the Kentucky River, Kentucky River Lock and Dam No. 7 stands as a testament to the enduring importance of hydroelectric power generation in the region. With its rich history dating back over a century, this dam continues to fulfill its primary purpose while also providing valuable water storage and flood control benefits. Through collaboration between state and federal agencies, this dam remains a critical piece of infrastructure that contributes to the sustainability and resilience of the water resources in Kentucky.
Year Completed |
1906 |
Dam Length |
260 |
Dam Height |
35 |
River Or Stream |
Kentucky |
Surface Area |
579 |
Drainage Area |
3219 |
Nid Storage |
6900 |
Hazard Potential |
Significant |
Nid Height |
35 |
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.
Kentucky River Lock And Dam No. 7
College Hill Road Madison County