Harvey Lake Reservoir Report
Nearby: Davis Lake Tillford
Last Updated: December 12, 2025
Harvey Lake, located in Bedford, Tennessee, is a private earth dam that was completed in 1965.
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Summary
With a hydraulic height of 29 feet and a structural height of 31 feet, this dam serves the primary purpose of water storage, with a capacity of 300 acre-feet and a normal storage level of 245 acre-feet. The lake covers an area of 21 acres and is fed by Sugar Creek, making it a vital resource for the surrounding community.
Although not state-regulated, Harvey Lake has a significant hazard potential and a moderate risk assessment rating. The dam features an uncontrolled spillway and has not received a condition assessment rating. Despite its risk level, the dam has not been assigned an Emergency Action Plan (EAP) or undergone recent inspections. The surrounding area, known as ANCHOR MILL, is represented in Congress by Scott DesJarlais (R), who oversees the district in which the lake is situated.
Water resource and climate enthusiasts will find Harvey Lake to be a fascinating case study of a privately-owned dam with potential risks and valuable water storage capacity. As a key feature in the local landscape, the lake's management and maintenance will be crucial in ensuring its safety and longevity for future generations. Its location in the Nashville District further highlights the intersection of human infrastructure with natural water systems, making it a site of interest for those interested in sustainable water resource management.
Year Completed |
1965 |
Dam Length |
1010 |
River Or Stream |
SUGAR CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
21 |
Hydraulic Height |
29 |
Drainage Area |
0.21 |
Nid Storage |
300 |
Structural Height |
31 |
Outlet Gates |
None |
Hazard Potential |
Significant |
Nid Height |
31 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
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.
Harvey Lake