Green River Lock And Dam 3 Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 6, 2025

Green River Lock and Dam 3, also known as Rochester Dam, is a federal structure located in Kentucky along the Green River.


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Summary

Completed in 1836, the dam serves primarily for navigation purposes and is operated and managed by the US Army Corps of Engineers. With a hydraulic height of 27 feet and a dam length of 410 feet, it has a low hazard potential and is deemed to have a high risk assessment due to its limited capacity to store water, which may lead to dam releases during severe weather events.

To manage the flood risks associated with the dam, the US Army Corps of Engineers continuously monitors its condition, prioritizes maintenance activities, and collaborates with local emergency managers to develop emergency action plans. Regular maintenance and repairs are conducted to ensure the dam's structural integrity and functionality. Despite the risks involved, the Corps works diligently to mitigate potential issues and maintain public safety, emphasizing the importance of preparedness and awareness in the event of a dam-related emergency.

Green River Lock and Dam 3 serves as a critical component in the water resource management of the area, highlighting the need for ongoing risk management measures and proactive community engagement. As climate change impacts intensify, the resilience and effectiveness of such structures become paramount in ensuring the sustainable use of water resources and mitigating potential hazards.

Year Completed

1836

Dam Length

410

River Or Stream

GREEN RIVER

Primary Dam Type

Other

Surface Area

2209

Length Of Locks

138

Hydraulic Height

27

Drainage Area

6142

Nid Storage

40070

Structural Height

27

Hazard Potential

Low

Foundations

Rock

Nid Height

27
       
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.