Norris Dam - Loyston Backwater Dike Reservoir Report
Nearby: Big Ridge Norris Dam
Last Updated: December 13, 2025
Norris Dam - Loyston Backwater Dike, located in Anderson, Tennessee, is a vital federal structure designed by the Tennessee Valley Authority (TVA) to mitigate flood risks along the Clinch River.
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Summary
Completed in 1935, this earth dam stands at 35 feet high and stretches 1994 feet in length, with a core made of stone resting on rock and soil foundations. The dam serves a primary purpose of Flood Risk Reduction and is owned, funded, designed, constructed, regulated, inspected, and operated by the TVA, showcasing a comprehensive approach to water resource management.
With a high hazard potential and a risk assessment rating of 2, the Norris Dam - Loyston Backwater Dike is a critical component of the region's water infrastructure. While the dam lacks spillways, locks, and outlet gates, its strategic location on the Clinch River highlights its importance in safeguarding the surrounding communities from potential flooding events. Despite its age, the dam's condition assessment is not available, indicating a need for further evaluation and potential risk management measures to ensure its continued effectiveness in flood control.
As a significant feature in the Tennessee landscape, the Norris Dam - Loyston Backwater Dike serves as a testament to the enduring legacy of early 20th-century engineering and its ongoing relevance in modern water resource management. The dam's role in protecting downstream areas from floodwaters underscores the critical importance of proactive infrastructure development and maintenance in the face of a changing climate. As water resource and climate enthusiasts, understanding and appreciating the intricacies of structures like the Norris Dam - Loyston Backwater Dike can deepen our appreciation for the interconnectedness of water systems and the environment.
Year Completed |
1935 |
Dam Length |
1994 |
Dam Height |
29 |
River Or Stream |
CLINCH RIVER |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Hydraulic Height |
16 |
Structural Height |
35 |
Outlet Gates |
None |
Hazard Potential |
High |
Foundations |
Rock, Soil |
Nid Height |
35 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Bullrun Creek Near Halls Crossroads
|
32cfs |
Beaver Creek At Solway
|
84cfs |
Clear Fork At Saxton
|
206cfs |
Little River Near Alcoa
|
209cfs |
Powell River Near Arthur
|
695cfs |
Little River Near Maryville
|
189cfs |
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 |
|---|---|---|
Loyston Point
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Big Ridge State Park
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Anderson County Park
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East Campground
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Clinton / Knoxville North KOA
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West Campground
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Norris Dam - Loyston Backwater Dike