Otter Creek Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 6, 2025

Otter Creek is a significant Earth dam located in Cumberland, Tennessee, completed in 1995 for the primary purpose of water supply.


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Summary

It is owned by a public utility and regulated by the Tennessee Safe Dams Program. The dam has a hydraulic height of 85 feet and a structural height of 95 feet, with a length of 650 feet. It has a storage capacity of 5,227 acre-feet and a surface area of 120 acres, serving as a crucial water resource for the region.

The dam's condition is assessed as satisfactory, with a significant hazard potential and moderate risk level. It is inspected every two years, with the last inspection conducted in December 2019. The dam has an uncontrolled spillway type and no outlet gates, with a drainage area of 2.67 square miles. Despite its moderate risk assessment, Otter Creek plays a vital role in water supply management for the area and is operated in compliance with state regulations, ensuring the safety and sustainability of its water resources for the community.

Otter Creek's strategic location in Tennessee, under the jurisdiction of the Nashville District, highlights its importance in supporting water supply needs and mitigating potential risks. With its satisfactory condition and regulated operations, the dam serves as a reliable resource for managing water levels and ensuring the safety of surrounding areas. Climate and water resource enthusiasts can appreciate the role of Otter Creek in maintaining a crucial water supply infrastructure while adhering to state regulations and inspection protocols to safeguard the environment and community.

Year Completed

1995

Dam Length

650

River Or Stream

OTTER CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

120

Hydraulic Height

85

Drainage Area

2.67

Nid Storage

5227

Structural Height

95

Outlet Gates

None

Hazard Potential

Significant

Nid Height

95
       
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.