Gum Branch Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 13, 2025

Gum Branch is a private dam situated in Anderson, Tennessee, primarily designed for tailings purposes.


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Summary

Built in 1981, this Earth-type dam stands at a structural height of 447 feet with a hydraulic height of 435 feet, providing a storage capacity of 1720 acre-feet. The dam spans a length of 1570 feet and covers a surface area of 30.8 acres, serving the local community in Devonia by regulating the Gum Branch river.

Managed by the Tennessee Safe Dams Program, Gum Branch has a state-regulated status with regular inspections to ensure its structural integrity. Despite being classified as having a high hazard potential, the dam's condition assessment as of November 2020 was reported as satisfactory. With a moderate risk level, measures for risk management and emergency preparedness are in place, emphasizing the importance of maintaining the dam's safety standards to protect the surrounding environment and communities.

Water resource and climate enthusiasts will find Gum Branch an intriguing structure, combining engineering excellence with environmental stewardship. Its significance lies not only in its functional purpose but also in the balance it maintains between human needs and natural ecosystems. As a key component of the local water infrastructure, Gum Branch serves as a reminder of the vital role dams play in water resource management and climate resilience.

Year Completed

1981

Dam Length

1570

River Or Stream

GUM BRANCH

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

30.8

Hydraulic Height

435

Drainage Area

0.37

Nid Storage

1720

Structural Height

447

Outlet Gates

None

Hazard Potential

High

Foundations

Unlisted/Unknown

Nid Height

447
       
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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.