Kentucky River Lock & Dam 9 Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Kentucky River Lock & Dam 9, located in Jessamine, Kentucky, is a vital structure owned and regulated by the state.


°F

°F

mph

Wind

%

Humidity

Summary

Completed in 1907, this concrete dam stands at a height of 36 feet and spans 294 feet across the Kentucky River, serving a primary purpose of navigation. With a storage capacity of 16,000 acre-feet, it plays a crucial role in managing water resources in the region, especially during times of high discharge.

This dam, with a hazard potential classified as high and a fair condition assessment as of 2017, is closely monitored and inspected by the Kentucky Division of Water. Despite its age, Kentucky River Lock & Dam 9 continues to facilitate navigation along the river, supporting local communities and industries. The risk assessment categorizes it as moderate, indicating a balance of potential hazards and operational effectiveness.

For water resource and climate enthusiasts, Kentucky River Lock & Dam 9 presents an intriguing case study of a historic infrastructure project that still plays a significant role in water management today. Its blend of functionality, regulatory oversight, and risk management measures make it a noteworthy structure in the Louisville District, contributing to the overall resilience of the region's waterways.

Year Completed

1907

Dam Length

294

Dam Height

36

River Or Stream

KENTUCKY RIVER

Primary Dam Type

Concrete

Drainage Area

4101

Nid Storage

16000

Hazard Potential

High

Nid Height

36
       
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.