Mcalpine Locks And Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Located on the Ohio River in Louisville, Kentucky, Mcalpine Locks and Dam is a vital Federal-owned structure managed by the US Army Corps of Engineers for navigation purposes.


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Summary

Completed in 1964, this concrete dam spans 9,100 feet and has a hydraulic height of 30 feet. It serves multiple purposes including fish and wildlife pond, hydroelectric power generation, recreation, and water supply, with a storage capacity of 525,260 acre-feet.

With a significant hazard potential and a high risk assessment rating, the USACE actively manages flood risks associated with the dam by monitoring its condition, prioritizing risk-reducing activities, and collaborating with local emergency managers to ensure public safety. Emergency action plans are regularly updated, and maintenance and repairs are conducted as needed to maintain the dam's structural integrity. As severe weather events can pose challenges, the USACE remains vigilant in addressing all types of flood risk to protect downstream communities and the dam itself.

Year Completed

1964

Dam Length

9100

River Or Stream

OHIO RIVER

Primary Dam Type

Concrete

Surface Area

18840

Length Of Locks

1200

Hydraulic Height

30

Drainage Area

91170

Nid Storage

525260

Structural Height

50

Hazard Potential

Significant

Nid Height

50
       
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.