Davis Lake Reservoir Report
Nearby: Harvey Lake Lake Elaine
Last Updated: December 13, 2025
Davis Lake, located in Shelbyville, Tennessee, is a private fish and wildlife pond with a primary purpose of supporting aquatic habitat and recreational activities.
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Summary
The dam, constructed in 1961 by the USDA NRCS, is an earth structure with a hydraulic height of 12.9 feet and a structural height of 16.2 feet. With a storage capacity of 70 acre-feet and a surface area of 7.3 acres, the dam on Mud Creek provides important water resources for the surrounding area.
Despite being privately owned, Davis Lake has a low hazard potential and is not currently regulated or inspected by state agencies. The dam's spillway type is uncontrolled, and it has not been modified in recent years. The risk assessment for the dam is moderate, indicating a level 3 risk. Emergency action plans and inundation maps have not been prepared for the dam, but its condition is currently not rated. Overall, Davis Lake serves as a valuable resource for both wildlife and outdoor enthusiasts in the region.
With its picturesque setting and focus on supporting fish and wildlife, Davis Lake is a hidden gem for water resource and climate enthusiasts. The dam's design by the USDA NRCS and its location on Mud Creek in Bedford County make it a unique feature in the area. While not subject to state regulation or inspection, the dam's low hazard potential and moderate risk level suggest a need for continued monitoring and maintenance to ensure its safety and longevity. For those interested in exploring the intersection of water management and environmental conservation, Davis Lake offers a fascinating case study in private ownership and stewardship of natural resources.
Year Completed |
1961 |
Dam Length |
480 |
River Or Stream |
MUD CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
7.3 |
Hydraulic Height |
12.9 |
Drainage Area |
0.39 |
Nid Storage |
70 |
Structural Height |
16.2 |
Outlet Gates |
None |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Rock, Soil |
Nid Height |
16 |
Seasonal Comparison
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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.
Davis Lake