Calderwood Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Calderwood is a captivating hydroelectric dam located in Blount, Tennessee, along the picturesque Little Tennessee River.


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Summary

Built in 1930, this arch dam stands at an impressive height of 214 feet, with a structural height of 230 feet and a hydraulic height of 229.4 feet. Calderwood boasts a storage capacity of 43,500 acre-feet and a drainage area of 1,856 square miles, making it a vital water resource in the region.

Managed by the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission, Calderwood's spillway system includes controlled spillways with a width of 576 feet, ensuring the safety and efficiency of the dam's operations. With a maximum discharge capacity of 375,000 cubic feet per second, Calderwood is equipped to handle high volumes of water flow. While the dam's hazard potential is classified as high, its risk assessment remains at a very high level, highlighting the importance of rigorous monitoring and management practices to safeguard the surrounding community and environment.

Despite its age, Calderwood continues to play a crucial role in generating hydroelectric power and regulating water flow along the Little Tennessee River. As a significant infrastructure project with historical significance, Calderwood stands as a testament to the enduring importance of sustainable water resource management in the face of changing climates and growing energy demands.

Year Completed

1930

Dam Length

916

Dam Height

214

River Or Stream

Little Tennessee

Primary Dam Type

Arch

Surface Area

570

Hydraulic Height

229.4

Drainage Area

1856

Nid Storage

43500

Structural Height

230

Outlet Gates

Other Controlled - 1, Vertical Lift - 24

Hazard Potential

High

Foundations

Rock

Nid Height

230
       
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.