Kelley Reservoir Report

Nearby: Burns Payne

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Kelley is a privately owned earth dam located in Bledsoe, Tennessee, along the Pemberton Branch.


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Summary

Built in 1969, this dam stands at a hydraulic height of 18 feet and a structural height of 23 feet, with a length of 242 feet. It has a storage capacity of 22 acre-feet and a surface area of 3 acres, serving a drainage area of 0.32 square miles. The dam is classified as having a significant hazard potential, with a moderate risk assessment rating.

Despite being privately owned, Kelley does not fall under state jurisdiction or regulation, with no state permitting, inspection, or enforcement in place. The dam is not regularly rated for its condition and does not have an Emergency Action Plan (EAP) prepared. In terms of its operation, Kelley has no associated locks, spillways, or outlet gates. The last inspection conducted on Kelley was in September 2017, with a scheduled inspection frequency of 5 years.

Overall, Kelley presents an interesting case study for water resource and climate enthusiasts, showcasing the complexities of privately owned dams in the United States. With its significant hazard potential and moderate risk assessment, there is a need for continued monitoring and evaluation to ensure the safety and integrity of this earth dam. As the dam is not regulated by state authorities, it highlights the importance of proactive risk management measures and emergency preparedness for private dam owners to mitigate potential hazards and protect downstream communities and ecosystems.

Year Completed

1969

Dam Length

242

River Or Stream

PEMBERTON BRANCH

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

3

Hydraulic Height

18

Drainage Area

0.32

Nid Storage

22

Structural Height

23

Outlet Gates

None

Hazard Potential

Significant

Nid Height

23
       
Seasonal Comparison

Weather Forecast

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.
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