Kentucky River Lock & Dam 12 Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 5, 2025
Kentucky River Lock & Dam 12, located in Estill County, Kentucky, is a concrete dam completed in 1910 for water supply purposes.
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Summary
Standing at a height of 31 feet and stretching 292 feet in length, this dam plays a crucial role in regulating the flow of the Kentucky River. With a storage capacity of 7092.6 acre-feet and a drainage area of 2916 square miles, its significance in managing water resources in the region cannot be overstated.
Managed by the Kentucky Division of Water, Kentucky River Lock & Dam 12 has been deemed to have a significant hazard potential, although its condition is assessed as fair. The dam is subject to regular inspections, with the last one conducted in December 2016. Despite its age, the dam continues to serve its purpose effectively, contributing to the overall water management infrastructure in the area. For water resource and climate enthusiasts, understanding the role and condition of structures like Kentucky River Lock & Dam 12 is essential in ensuring the sustainable utilization of water resources in the face of changing climatic conditions.
As part of the Huntington District, Kentucky River Lock & Dam 12 operates an uncontrolled spillway and is subject to state regulations and inspections. The dam's risk assessment indicates a moderate level of risk, highlighting the need for ongoing monitoring and risk management measures. With the potential to impact downstream areas in case of failure, maintaining the structural integrity and functionality of this key water management asset is crucial for safeguarding both water supply and environmental stability in the region.
Year Completed |
1910 |
Dam Length |
292 |
Dam Height |
31 |
River Or Stream |
KENTUCKY RIVER |
Primary Dam Type |
Concrete |
Drainage Area |
2916 |
Nid Storage |
7092.6 |
Hazard Potential |
Significant |
Nid Height |
31 |
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 & Dam 12
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