Lake Pomeroy Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 6, 2025

Lake Pomeroy, located in Fairfield Glade, Tennessee, is a privately owned dam regulated by the Tennessee Safe Dams Program.


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Summary

Built in 1975, this earth-type dam stands at a structural height of 30.4 feet and boasts a storage capacity of 306 acre-feet. The dam's primary purpose is to control flow on the Black Gum Branch, providing significant hazard potential but maintaining a satisfactory condition as of the last inspection in February 2020.

With a surface area of 25.2 acres and a drainage area of 0.44 square miles, Lake Pomeroy offers a serene retreat for water resource and climate enthusiasts alike. The dam's uncontrolled spillway and lack of outlet gates add to its unique design, while its moderate risk assessment of level 3 indicates a need for ongoing risk management measures. Despite its private ownership, the dam remains subject to state jurisdiction and regulation, ensuring the safety and integrity of this vital water resource for the surrounding Cumberland County community.

As one of the many dams under the purview of the Nashville District of the US Army Corps of Engineers, Lake Pomeroy stands as a testament to the intersection of human engineering and natural resources. Its peaceful waters and lush surroundings make it a prime destination for outdoor activities, while its role in water flow control and hazard mitigation underscores the importance of responsible dam management in the face of changing climate conditions. For water resource and climate enthusiasts, Lake Pomeroy offers a fascinating case study in the delicate balance between human development and environmental stewardship.

Year Completed

1975

Dam Length

650

River Or Stream

BLACK GUM BRANCH

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

25.2

Hydraulic Height

25.9

Drainage Area

0.44

Nid Storage

306

Structural Height

30.4

Outlet Gates

None

Hazard Potential

Significant

Nid Height

30
       
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.