Located in Cumberland, Tennessee, the Cox dam on Downing Creek was completed in 1952 and stands at a height of 19 feet with a hydraulic height of 17 feet. With a storage capacity of 55 acre-feet, this earth dam serves multiple purposes, although its primary purpose is unspecified. The dam's spillway is uncontrolled, with no outlet gates and a significant hazard potential.

Despite being privately owned, Cox dam is not regulated by the state of Tennessee and does not require permitting, inspection, or enforcement. The dam is situated in an area with a moderate risk assessment and a drainage area of 0.46 square miles. While its condition is not rated, the dam undergoes inspections every five years to ensure its structural integrity. John W. Rose (R) represents the area in the US Congress, but the dam does not fall under any congressional jurisdiction.

For water resource and climate enthusiasts, the Cox dam presents an intriguing case study of a privately owned structure that plays a crucial role in managing water resources in the region. Its design and construction in the early 1950s reflect the engineering practices of the time, while its current risk assessment and lack of regulatory oversight raise questions about the dam's long-term sustainability and resilience in the face of changing climate conditions. Further research and monitoring of this dam could provide valuable insights into the intersection of water management, infrastructure resilience, and climate adaptation efforts in the Cumberland area.