Lake Elaine, located in Bedford, Tennessee, is a privately owned Earth dam with a hydraulic height of 21 feet and a structural height of 26 feet.
Wind
Humidity
Completed in 1945, this dam boasts a storage capacity of 350 acre-feet, with a normal storage level of 200 acre-feet and a surface area of 28.5 acres. The dam is situated on the Coleman Ray Branch, under the jurisdiction of the Nashville District of the US Army Corps of Engineers.
With a high hazard potential and a moderate risk assessment rating, Lake Elaine is a key feature in the area's water resource management. Despite its age, the dam's condition has not been formally rated, and it is not subject to state regulation or inspection. The spillway is uncontrolled, and there are no outlet gates or associated structures. The last inspection was conducted in January 2020, with a scheduled inspection frequency of every 5 years.
For water resource and climate enthusiasts, Lake Elaine presents an intriguing case study in dam infrastructure. Its historical significance, high hazard potential, and moderate risk assessment make it a focal point for understanding the complexities of managing water resources in the region. As climate change continues to impact precipitation patterns and extreme weather events, the maintenance and monitoring of dams like Lake Elaine will be crucial in ensuring the safety and sustainability of water systems for future generations.
Year Completed |
1945 |
Dam Length |
555 |
River Or Stream |
COLEMAN RAY BRANCH |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
28.5 |
Hydraulic Height |
21 |
Drainage Area |
0.97 |
Nid Storage |
350 |
Structural Height |
26 |
Outlet Gates |
None |
Hazard Potential |
High |
Nid Height |
26 |