Barren River Lock And Dam 1 Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 12, 2025

Barren River Lock and Dam 1, located in Woodbury, Kentucky, is a crucial structure managed by the US Army Corps of Engineers for navigation on the Barren River.


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Summary

Completed in 1934, the dam stands at a height of 25 feet and a length of 451 feet, with a storage capacity of 9260 acre-feet. The dam plays a vital role in managing water levels and preventing floods in the region, with a maximum discharge capacity of 1500 cubic feet per second.

Despite its low hazard potential, Barren River Lock and Dam 1 is still subject to risks associated with severe weather events and fluctuating water levels. The US Army Corps of Engineers implements various risk management measures to ensure the dam's structural integrity and the safety of surrounding communities. This includes regular monitoring, maintenance, and collaboration with local emergency managers to prepare for any potential dam-related emergencies.

While the dam currently has a high risk assessment rating, efforts are continuously made to address potential issues and enhance safety measures. The US Army Corps of Engineers remains dedicated to maintaining the dam's functionality and safeguarding the area against flood risks, ensuring the continued protection of water resources and the environment.

Year Completed

1934

Dam Length

451

River Or Stream

BARREN RIVER

Primary Dam Type

Other

Surface Area

10

Length Of Locks

360

Hydraulic Height

25

Drainage Area

6960

Nid Storage

9260

Structural Height

25

Hazard Potential

Low

Nid Height

25
       
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.