Unicoi Lake Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Unicoi Lake in Coker Creek, Tennessee, is a privately owned reservoir built in 1968 with a primary purpose that is not specified.


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Summary

The dam type is earth, standing at 24.9 feet tall with a hydraulic height of 23.3 feet. The lake has a storage capacity of 51 acre-feet and a surface area of 4.4 acres, with a low hazard potential and a moderate risk assessment rating. The reservoir is situated on the Coker Creek river and is managed by the Nashville District of the US Army Corps of Engineers.

Despite not being regulated or inspected by the state, Unicoi Lake boasts a well-maintained structure with a last inspection date of September 2016. The reservoir has no associated structures and an uncontrolled spillway type. Although the dam's condition is not rated, it is considered to meet safety guidelines and has not required an Emergency Action Plan (EAP) to be prepared. The risk management measures for the dam are not specified, but it is clear that the risk assessment for Unicoi Lake is moderate.

Overall, Unicoi Lake serves as a valuable water resource in Monroe County, Tennessee, providing recreational opportunities and supporting the local ecosystem. With its picturesque surroundings and ample storage capacity, this privately owned reservoir is a significant feature in the region's water infrastructure. Climate and water resource enthusiasts will find Unicoi Lake an intriguing location to explore and study the intersection of human engineering and natural water systems.

Year Completed

1968

Dam Length

169

River Or Stream

COKER CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

4.4

Hydraulic Height

23.3

Drainage Area

0.13

Nid Storage

51

Structural Height

24.9

Outlet Gates

None

Hazard Potential

Low

Nid Height

25
       
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.