Marrowbone Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 10, 2025

Marrowbone is a state-regulated dam located in Davidson, Tennessee, specifically in the city of Ashland City.


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Summary

Built in 1939, this Earth-type dam stands at a structural height of 56 feet and has a hydraulic height of 45 feet, controlling Marrowbone Creek and providing a normal storage capacity of 510 acre-feet. With a drainage area of 5.7 square miles and a surface area of 57 acres, Marrowbone plays a crucial role in managing water resources in the region.

Despite its satisfactory condition assessment as of May 2020, Marrowbone poses a high hazard potential due to its uncontrolled spillway type. The dam has a moderate risk rating and is subject to regular inspections, with the Tennessee Safe Dams Program overseeing its permitting, inspection, and enforcement. With a maximum storage capacity of 1670 acre-feet and a length of 540 feet, Marrowbone serves as a vital infrastructure for flood control and water supply management in the area.

As a significant structure within the Nashville District of the US Army Corps of Engineers, Marrowbone is a key component of the region's water resource management system. Climate and water resource enthusiasts would appreciate the role that this dam plays in mitigating flood risks and ensuring water availability for the surrounding communities. With its historical significance and ongoing regulatory oversight, Marrowbone stands as a testament to the importance of sustainable infrastructure development in the face of changing climatic conditions.

Year Completed

1939

Dam Length

540

River Or Stream

MARROWBONE CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

57

Hydraulic Height

45

Drainage Area

5.7

Nid Storage

1670

Structural Height

56

Outlet Gates

None

Hazard Potential

High

Nid Height

56
       
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.