Kentucky Dam - Big Sandy East Levee Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 6, 2025

Kentucky Dam, also known as Big Sandy East Levee, is a critical structure located on the Tennessee River in Benton, Tennessee.


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Summary

Built in 1944 by the Tennessee Valley Authority (TVA), this federal-owned earth dam stands at a height of 15 feet and spans a length of 2300 feet. It serves as a crucial tool for flood risk reduction in the region, protecting the surrounding area from potential water hazards.

Managed and maintained by TVA, Kentucky Dam plays a pivotal role in regulating water flow and ensuring the safety of nearby communities. Despite its high hazard potential, the dam's condition assessment is currently not available, highlighting the importance of regular inspections and risk management measures. The dam is associated with five other structures, collectively contributing to the overall flood risk reduction efforts in the area.

While the dam's exact storage capacity and other specific details are not provided in the data, it is evident that Kentucky Dam is a key component of the region's water resource infrastructure. With its historical significance and ongoing role in mitigating flood risks, this structure remains a critical asset for both water resource and climate enthusiasts interested in understanding and protecting our natural environment.

Year Completed

1944

Dam Length

2300

Dam Height

15

River Or Stream

TENNESSEE RIVER

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Structural Height

15

Outlet Gates

None

Hazard Potential

High

Foundations

Soil

Nid Height

15
       
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.