Kentucky River Lock & Dam 13 Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Kentucky River Lock & Dam 13, located in Pryse, Kentucky, is a state-owned structure on the Kentucky River that plays a crucial role in navigation.


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Summary

Built in 1915, this concrete dam stands at a height of 43 feet and stretches 300 feet in length. With a storage capacity of 3092.1 acre-feet, it serves as a key component in managing the river's flow and supporting water transportation activities in the area.

Managed by the Kentucky Division of Water, Kentucky River Lock & Dam 13 is subject to state regulations, inspections, and enforcement to ensure its safe operation. Despite its low hazard potential, the dam is categorized as having a moderate risk level, emphasizing the importance of ongoing monitoring and maintenance to mitigate potential risks. The dam's condition is currently listed as "Not Rated," indicating that further assessment may be needed to fully evaluate its structural integrity and performance.

Although specific details on the dam's risk management measures and emergency preparedness are not provided, the structure is deemed to meet state guidelines. With its historical significance and role in supporting navigation on the Kentucky River, Kentucky River Lock & Dam 13 stands as a testament to the state's commitment to water resource management and infrastructure maintenance in the region.

Year Completed

1915

Dam Length

300

Dam Height

43

River Or Stream

KENTUCKY RIVER

Primary Dam Type

Concrete

Drainage Area

2784

Nid Storage

3092.1

Hazard Potential

Low

Nid Height

43
       
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.