Kentucky River Lock & Dam 8 Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 6, 2025

Kentucky River Lock & Dam 8, located in Jessamine, Kentucky, serves as a vital water resource structure for the state.


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Summary

Completed in 1900, this Timber Crib dam stands at a height of 31 feet and boasts a storage capacity of 14,020 acre-feet, with a drainage area of 4,414 square miles. The dam primarily serves the purpose of navigation on the Kentucky River, contributing to the effective management and regulation of water flow in the region.

Managed by the Kentucky Division of Water, this state-regulated dam has been deemed to have a significant hazard potential but is currently in satisfactory condition following its last inspection in December 2017. With a moderate risk assessment rating of 3, the dam plays a crucial role in water resource management and flood control efforts in the area. The structure's presence highlights the intersection of engineering ingenuity and environmental stewardship in maintaining a balance between water utilization and conservation.

For water resource and climate enthusiasts, Kentucky River Lock & Dam 8 stands as a testament to the importance of infrastructure in sustaining water ecosystems and ensuring efficient water transportation. With its historical significance and ongoing role in water management, this dam serves as a focal point for understanding the interconnectedness of human activity and natural resources, emphasizing the need for responsible stewardship to safeguard our waterways for future generations.

Year Completed

1900

Dam Length

309

Dam Height

31

River Or Stream

KENTUCKY RIVER

Primary Dam Type

Timber Crib

Drainage Area

4414

Nid Storage

14020

Hazard Potential

Significant

Nid Height

31
       
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.