Buckhorn Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 12, 2025

Buckhorn Dam, also known as Buckhorn Lake, is a vital flood risk reduction infrastructure located in Perry, Kentucky.


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Summary

Completed in 1960, this rockfill dam stands at a structural height of 160 feet and plays a crucial role in preventing downstream flooding along the Middlefork Kentucky River. With a storage capacity of 167,900 acre-feet and a spillway width of 140 feet, the dam significantly reduces the risk of flooding to downstream communities, though extreme rainfall events could still pose a threat.

Despite being classified as having a high hazard potential, the US Army Corps of Engineers (USACE) has implemented various risk management measures to mitigate potential risks associated with the dam. Regular inspections, emergency action planning, and close coordination with local emergency managers are key components of their risk reduction strategy. Furthermore, USACE continuously monitors the dam's health and conducts emergency exercises with state and local response teams to ensure the structure's integrity and enhance emergency preparedness.

In the event of a breach or extreme rainfall, downstream areas such as Buckhorn, Beattyville, and Irvine/Ravenna could experience significant flooding. Residents are advised to pre-plan emergency routes and stay alert to potential risks. With ongoing maintenance and proactive risk management efforts, Buckhorn Dam remains a critical asset in safeguarding the region against flooding.

Year Completed

1960

Dam Length

1020

River Or Stream

MIDDLEFORK KENTUCKY RIVER

Primary Dam Type

Rockfill

Surface Area

1230

Hydraulic Height

123

Drainage Area

408

Nid Storage

167900

Structural Height

160

Outlet Gates

Uncontrolled - 0, Vertical Lift - 3

Hazard Potential

High

Nid Height

160
       
Seasonal Comparison

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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.