Kentucky River Lock And Dam 4 Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 5, 2025
Kentucky River Lock and Dam 4, located in Franklin, Kentucky, was completed in 1844 and is owned and managed by the US Army Corps of Engineers.
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Summary
This timber crib dam stands at a structural height of 27 feet with a hydraulic height of 21 feet, serving a variety of purposes including navigation, fish and wildlife pond, recreation, and water supply. With a storage capacity of 15,860 acre-feet and a drainage area of 5,412 square miles, the dam plays a crucial role in managing water levels along the Kentucky River.
Despite being classified as a low hazard potential dam, Kentucky River Lock and Dam 4 is recognized for its high flood risk due to its limited water storage capacity and the potential for severe weather events to overwhelm the dam system. The US Army Corps of Engineers employs various risk management measures to mitigate these risks, including continuous monitoring of the dam's condition, prioritizing maintenance activities, and engaging with emergency managers and the public to raise awareness and preparedness for dam-related emergencies. While the dam's emergency action plan is regularly updated, more detailed information specific to this dam will be added in the future to enhance risk management strategies and ensure the safety of surrounding communities.
Year Completed |
1844 |
Dam Length |
581 |
River Or Stream |
KENTUCKY |
Primary Dam Type |
Timber Crib |
Surface Area |
1110 |
Length Of Locks |
145 |
Hydraulic Height |
21 |
Drainage Area |
5412 |
Nid Storage |
15860 |
Structural Height |
27 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Nid Height |
27 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Kentucky River At Lock 4 At Frankfort
|
5280cfs |
Elkhorn Creek Near Frankfort
|
318cfs |
Kentucky River At Lock 5 Near Tyrone
|
5480cfs |
South Elkhorn Creek Near Midway
|
89cfs |
Kentucky River At Lock 3 At Gest
|
4990cfs |
Kentucky River At Lock 2 At Lockport
|
4630cfs |
Dam Data Reference
Condition Assessment
SatisfactoryNo 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
HighDams 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.
Kentucky River Lock And Dam 4