Alcoa Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Alcoa, located in Blount, Tennessee, is a local government-owned dam regulated by the Tennessee Safe Dams Program.


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Summary

Built in 1991, this earth dam stands at a height of 34 feet and has a hydraulic height of 22.5 feet. With a storage capacity of 177 acre-feet and a surface area of 9.2 acres, Alcoa serves a vital role in water resource management in the area.

Despite being classified as a low hazard potential structure, Alcoa is subject to regular inspections, with the last one conducted in January 2020 and deemed to be in satisfactory condition. The dam's emergency action plan status and risk management measures are currently unspecified, but its risk assessment indicates a moderate level of risk. Alcoa's location within the Nashville District and its proximity to the Tim Burchett (R) congressional representative highlight its importance in the region's water infrastructure landscape.

For water resource and climate enthusiasts, Alcoa presents an intriguing case study in local government dam ownership and regulation. Its presence underscores the critical role of earth dams in managing water resources, and its moderate risk assessment prompts further exploration into risk management strategies. As the Tennessee Safe Dams Program oversees its operations, Alcoa stands as a testament to the ongoing efforts to maintain and safeguard our water infrastructure in the face of changing environmental conditions.

Year Completed

1991

Dam Length

2730

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

9.2

Hydraulic Height

22.5

Drainage Area

0.01

Nid Storage

177

Structural Height

34

Outlet Gates

None

Hazard Potential

Low

Nid Height

34
       
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.