Rough River Dam, also known as Rough River Lake, is a federal-owned structure located in Falls of Rough, Kentucky.
Wind
Humidity
Completed in 1959, this earth dam serves multiple purposes, including flood risk reduction, recreation, and water supply. Standing at a hydraulic height of 132 feet and a length of 1590 feet, the dam has a storage capacity of 334,400 acre-feet and covers a surface area of 5,100 acres. The dam plays a crucial role in reducing the risk of flooding to surrounding communities along the Rough River, although extreme rainfall events could still lead to downstream flooding.
US Army Corps of Engineers (USACE) has implemented risk management measures at Rough River Dam to mitigate potential hazards. After completing Phase I of remedial construction, which involved grouting defects in the limestone bedrock, Phase 2 is currently underway. This phase includes the construction of a full-depth concrete cut-off wall along the crest of the dam and a new outlet works through the left abutment. USACE works closely with local emergency managers, regularly updates the Emergency Action Plan, conducts emergency exercises, and holds public meetings to discuss risks with the community. Regular inspections and monitoring ensure the dam's health and functionality, with maintenance and repairs performed as needed. Residents downstream and around the reservoir are encouraged to pre-plan emergency routes in the event of elevated reservoir levels.
Year Completed |
1959 |
Dam Length |
1590 |
River Or Stream |
ROUGH RIVER |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
5100 |
Hydraulic Height |
132 |
Drainage Area |
454 |
Nid Storage |
334400 |
Structural Height |
132 |
Outlet Gates |
Uncontrolled - 0, Vertical Lift - 3 |
Hazard Potential |
High |
Nid Height |
132 |
Caney Creek Near Horse Branch
|
49cfs |
South Fork Panther Creek Near Whitesville
|
25cfs |
Ohio River At Cannelton Dam At Cannelton
|
49000cfs |
Nolin River At White Mills
|
135cfs |
Bacon Creek Near Priceville
|
23cfs |
Green River At Paradise
|
3160cfs |
| Location | Reservations | Toilets |
|---|---|---|
Rough River State Park
|
||
Laurel Branch - Rough River Lake
|
||
Axtel - Rough River Lake
|
||
Cave Creek - Rough River Lake
|
||
North Fork - Rough River Lake
|