Barkley Lock And Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 8, 2025

Barkley Lock and Dam, also known as Lake Barkley, is a federal-owned structure located in Lyon, Kentucky, along the Cumberland River.


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Summary

Completed in 1966, this gravity dam serves primarily for navigation purposes, but also supports fish and wildlife pond management, flood risk reduction, hydroelectric power generation, recreation, and water supply. With a hydraulic height of 109 feet and a structural height of 157 feet, the dam has a length of 10,180 feet and a storage capacity of 2,082,000 acre-feet.

Managed by the US Army Corps of Engineers, Barkley Lock and Dam poses a high hazard potential due to its role in flood risk management. The Corps continually monitors the dam's condition, implements risk management measures, and updates emergency action plans to ensure public safety in the event of a dam-related emergency. Despite its vital role in water management, the dam has limited storage capacity and may release water to manage levels or relieve pressure during severe weather events. The Corps collaborates with local emergency managers to develop evacuation plans and perform regular maintenance to maintain the dam's integrity.

Inundation maps, risk assessments, and emergency contact information are readily available for Barkley Lock and Dam, showcasing the Corps' commitment to transparency and preparedness. As a key infrastructure on the Cumberland River, the dam plays a critical role in water resource management and climate resilience efforts. The ongoing efforts to manage flood risks and ensure the dam's functionality highlight the importance of proactive risk management and community engagement in safeguarding water resources and infrastructure in the face of changing climate conditions.

Year Completed

1966

Dam Length

10180

River Or Stream

CUMBERLAND

Primary Dam Type

Gravity

Surface Area

57920

Length Of Locks

800

Hydraulic Height

109

Drainage Area

17598

Nid Storage

2082000

Structural Height

157

Hazard Potential

High

Foundations

Soil

Nid Height

157
       
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.