Lake Womack Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Located in Coffee, Tennessee, Lake Womack is a private reservoir that was completed in 1937 for the primary purpose of water storage.


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Summary

With a maximum storage capacity of 215 acre-feet and a normal storage level of 124 acre-feet, this earth dam structure on Taylor Branch serves as a vital resource for the local community. The dam, standing at a structural height of 15.7 feet and a hydraulic height of 12.4 feet, plays a crucial role in managing water resources in the area.

Despite being state-regulated and owned privately, Lake Womack has a low hazard potential and a moderate risk assessment rating. The reservoir covers a surface area of 25 acres and has a drainage area of 2.88 square miles. While the dam does not have outlet gates, it features an uncontrolled spillway type. With a recent inspection conducted in July 2018 and a designated inspection frequency of 5 years, the condition assessment of Lake Womack is currently noted as "Not Rated," emphasizing the need for ongoing monitoring and maintenance to ensure its long-term stability and functionality.

For water resource and climate enthusiasts, Lake Womack presents an intriguing case study of a historic earth dam that continues to provide essential water storage capabilities in Tennessee. As discussions around water management and infrastructure resilience gain prominence, the unique characteristics of Lake Womack offer valuable insights into the importance of maintaining and regulating such structures to mitigate potential risks and ensure sustainable water resource management for future generations.

Year Completed

1937

Dam Length

952

River Or Stream

TAYLOR BRANCH

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

25

Hydraulic Height

12.4

Drainage Area

2.88

Nid Storage

215

Structural Height

15.7

Outlet Gates

None

Hazard Potential

Low

Nid Height

16
       
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.