Higdon Reservoir Report
Nearby: Cole Tennessee Silica
Last Updated: January 8, 2026
Located in Carroll, Tennessee, the Higdon dam stands as a testament to human ingenuity and environmental stewardship.
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Summary
Built in 1979, this earth dam spans 650 feet and rises to a structural height of 33.9 feet, with a hydraulic height of 30.3 feet. The dam's primary purpose is to regulate the flow of Cotton Creek, providing crucial water resource management for the region. With a normal storage capacity of 259 acre-feet and a maximum storage of 339 acre-feet, Higdon plays a vital role in flood control and water supply for the surrounding area.
Managed by the Tennessee Safe Dams Program, Higdon is subject to regular inspections and regulatory oversight to ensure its structural integrity and safety. Despite its low hazard potential and satisfactory condition assessment, the dam is classified as having a moderate risk level. This designation underscores the importance of ongoing risk management measures and emergency preparedness to mitigate potential threats and safeguard the local community. As climate change continues to impact water resources and infrastructure, the role of dams like Higdon in sustainable water management becomes increasingly significant.
With its uncontrolled spillway and minimal associated structures, Higdon exemplifies the balance between human development and environmental conservation. As the Nashville District oversees its operations and maintenance, Higdon serves as a model for effective dam management in the face of changing environmental conditions and growing water resource challenges. Whether it's regulating water flow, storing vital supplies, or protecting against potential hazards, Higdon stands as a resilient and essential element of Tennessee's water infrastructure, embodying the intersection of human innovation and natural resource conservation.
Year Completed |
1979 |
Dam Length |
650 |
River Or Stream |
COTTON CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
21.4 |
Hydraulic Height |
30.3 |
Drainage Area |
0.22 |
Nid Storage |
339 |
Structural Height |
33.9 |
Outlet Gates |
None |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Nid Height |
34 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
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.
Higdon