Chilhowee Reservoir Report
Nearby: Turkeypen Calderwood
Last Updated: December 5, 2025
Chilhowee Dam, located in Blount County, Tennessee, is a gravity-type structure completed in 1957 for hydroelectric purposes on the Little Tennessee River.
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Summary
With a height of 66 feet and a hydraulic height of 85.4 feet, the dam provides a maximum storage capacity of 49,251 acre-feet and a normal storage capacity of the same amount. The dam's spillway, controlled in nature, has a width of 210 feet and a maximum discharge capacity of 495,000 cubic feet per second.
This dam, owned and operated by a private entity, plays a crucial role in water resource management and renewable energy production in the region. With a hazard potential rated as high and a risk assessment indicating a very high risk level, it is imperative to ensure proper maintenance and emergency preparedness for this vital infrastructure. Regular inspections by the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission help monitor the dam's condition, although detailed assessment reports are not readily available to the public.
Chilhowee Dam stands as a significant landmark in the Tennessee landscape, contributing to both water resource management and clean energy production. As climate change impacts continue to affect water availability and weather patterns, the role of such hydroelectric structures becomes increasingly important. With a focus on risk management and emergency preparedness, the dam serves as a reminder of the intersection between water resources, climate change, and sustainable energy production in the region.
Year Completed |
1957 |
Dam Length |
1483 |
Dam Height |
66 |
River Or Stream |
Little Tennessee |
Primary Dam Type |
Gravity |
Surface Area |
1747 |
Hydraulic Height |
85.4 |
Drainage Area |
1977 |
Nid Storage |
49251 |
Structural Height |
88.5 |
Outlet Gates |
Tainter (radial) - 6 |
Hazard Potential |
High |
Foundations |
Rock |
Nid Height |
89 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Cheoah River Nr Bearpen Gap Nr Tapoco
|
154cfs |
Tellico River At Tellico Plains
|
178cfs |
Little River Near Maryville
|
270cfs |
Little River Near Alcoa
|
310cfs |
Little River Above Townsend
|
211cfs |
Valley River At Tomotla
|
268cfs |
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.
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