Norris Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 13, 2025

Norris Dam, located in Campbell County, Tennessee, along the Clinch River, is a concrete dam with a height of 236 feet and a hydraulic height of 238 feet.


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Summary

Completed in 1936, it serves as a critical flood risk reduction structure, with additional purposes including hydroelectric power generation and recreation. Managed by the Tennessee Valley Authority, Norris Dam has a storage capacity of 3,363,168 acre-feet, with a normal storage level of 2,040,507 acre-feet, covering a surface area of 34,000 acres and draining a 2,912 square mile area.

With a controlled spillway width of 300 feet, Norris Dam has a maximum discharge capacity of 250,000 cubic feet per second, making it a crucial asset for managing flood events in the region. Despite its high hazard potential, the dam's condition assessment is currently listed as "Not Available," underscoring the importance of regular inspections and risk management measures. The surrounding Norris Lake, formed by the dam, offers recreational opportunities and scenic views for visitors, further highlighting the diverse benefits of this engineering marvel in the heart of Tennessee.

Year Completed

1936

Dam Length

1860

Dam Height

236

River Or Stream

CLINCH RIVER

Primary Dam Type

Concrete

Surface Area

34000

Hydraulic Height

238

Drainage Area

2912

Nid Storage

3363168

Structural Height

265

Outlet Gates

Drum, Slide (sluice gate)

Hazard Potential

High

Foundations

Rock

Nid Height

265
       
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.