Clayborne Reservoir Report
Nearby: Beecher Smith J C Gant
Last Updated: December 6, 2025
Clayborne is a privately owned earth dam located in Bledsoe, Tennessee, along Beaverdam Creek.
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Summary
Completed in 1966, this dam has a hydraulic height of 14.5 feet and a structural height of 17 feet, with a length of 260 feet. It serves the primary purpose of water storage, with a capacity of 105 acre-feet and a surface area of 15.5 acres, providing essential water resources for the surrounding area. Despite its low hazard potential and moderate risk assessment rating, Clayborne has not been inspected since May 2017, raising concerns about its current condition and emergency preparedness.
While not regulated or permitted by the state of Tennessee, Clayborne's lack of recent inspections and maintenance raises questions about its long-term stability and safety. With no designated emergency action plan in place and outdated risk assessment information, there is a potential risk to the local community in the event of a dam failure or emergency situation. The dam's uncontrolled spillway and absence of outlet gates further highlight the need for updated risk management measures and regular inspections to ensure the safety and integrity of the structure.
In the hands of a private owner, Clayborne's maintenance and upkeep are solely the responsibility of the owner. With no state oversight or regulatory agency involvement, it is crucial for the owner to prioritize regular inspections, emergency preparedness, and risk management to mitigate any potential hazards and ensure the long-term sustainability of this vital water resource infrastructure in Bledsoe, Tennessee.
Year Completed |
1966 |
Dam Length |
260 |
River Or Stream |
BEAVERDAM CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
15.5 |
Hydraulic Height |
14.5 |
Drainage Area |
0.64 |
Nid Storage |
105 |
Structural Height |
17 |
Outlet Gates |
None |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Nid Height |
17 |
Seasonal Comparison
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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.
Area Campgrounds
| Location | Reservations | Toilets |
|---|---|---|
Backcountry Camp 3
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Backcountry Camp 1
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Backcountry Camp 2
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Clayborne