Lawson Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Lawson is a private recreational dam located in Bradley, Tennessee, with a storage capacity of 52 acre-feet and a surface area of 5.7 acres.


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Summary

Managed by the Tennessee state agency, this earth dam stands at a hydraulic height of 15 feet and a structural height of 18 feet, serving as a popular spot for outdoor activities in the area. Despite its high hazard potential, the dam's condition assessment remains unrated, highlighting a need for regular inspection and maintenance to ensure public safety.

Situated within the Nashville District, Lawson features an uncontrolled spillway type and is not regulated by the state, posing a moderate risk level according to a recent assessment. Although it lacks official state permitting and inspection, the dam has emergency action protocols in place, with a designated inspection frequency of 5 years. The dam's last inspection was conducted in April 2020, emphasizing the importance of ongoing monitoring and risk management practices to mitigate potential threats and ensure the longevity of this vital water resource infrastructure for the community.

In the realm of water resource and climate enthusiasts, Lawson serves as a unique case study for the intersection of private ownership, recreational purposes, and dam safety considerations. With its picturesque location and significant storage capacity, this dam underscores the need for proactive risk assessment and management strategies in safeguarding both the environment and public welfare. As stakeholders continue to navigate the complexities of maintaining aging infrastructure like Lawson, a comprehensive approach to monitoring, maintenance, and emergency preparedness will be essential in sustaining the resilience of water resources amidst evolving climate challenges.

Dam Length

18

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

5.7

Hydraulic Height

15

Drainage Area

0.21

Nid Storage

52

Structural Height

18

Outlet Gates

None

Hazard Potential

High

Nid Height

18
       
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.