Cole Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 6, 2025

Cole is a privately owned dam located in Benton, Tennessee, on the Hunting Creek.


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Summary

Built in 1973, this Earth dam stands at a structural height of 22 feet, with a hydraulic height of 19.5 feet. With a capacity of 57 acre-feet, Cole serves primarily for flood control purposes. The dam covers a surface area of 5.5 acres and has a drainage area of 0.06 square miles.

Despite its age, Cole has a low hazard potential and is deemed to be in moderate risk condition. The dam has not been inspected since August 2017, with an inspection frequency of every 5 years. It currently lacks an Emergency Action Plan (EAP) and has not been assessed for its overall condition. However, with its uncontrolled spillway and absence of outlet gates, Cole remains a crucial structure in the area for managing water resources and mitigating potential flood risks.

Located in the Nashville District, Cole is situated in the jurisdiction of Congressman Mark E. Green (R). While not regulated by the state, the dam has not undergone any recent modifications and remains a key feature in the local landscape. As a water resource and climate enthusiast, monitoring and maintaining the integrity of Cole is essential for ensuring the safety and sustainability of the surrounding community.

Year Completed

1973

Dam Length

500

River Or Stream

HUNTING CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

5.5

Hydraulic Height

19.5

Drainage Area

0.06

Nid Storage

57

Structural Height

22

Outlet Gates

None

Hazard Potential

Low

Nid Height

22
       
Seasonal Comparison

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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.