Radnor Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 11, 2025

Radnor, located in Oak Hill, Davidson County, Tennessee, is a state-regulated dam on Otter Creek with a primary purpose of recreation.


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Summary

Built in 1917, this earth dam stands at a structural height of 54 feet and a hydraulic height of 45.5 feet, impounding a maximum storage capacity of 2,150 acre-feet and a normal storage volume of 1,321 acre-feet. With a surface area of 75 acres and a drainage area of 2.12 square miles, Radnor offers a picturesque setting for outdoor enthusiasts to enjoy various recreational activities.

Despite its scenic beauty, Radnor poses a high hazard potential and has been assessed as unsatisfactory in condition. The dam lacks control mechanisms as it features an uncontrolled spillway. Its last inspection in May 2020 revealed the need for improvement, highlighting the necessity for regular maintenance and monitoring to ensure public safety. With a risk assessment rating of moderate (3), Radnor's risk management measures and emergency action plan preparedness require attention to mitigate potential hazards and safeguard the surrounding community.

Managed by the Tennessee Safe Dams Program, Radnor's association with the Nashville District of the US Army Corps of Engineers underscores the importance of regulatory oversight and enforcement for dam safety. As climate change intensifies the frequency and severity of extreme weather events, the maintenance and upkeep of dams like Radnor become crucial in preserving water resources and protecting downstream communities from the threat of dam failure. Enthusiasts and stakeholders in water resource management and climate resilience should advocate for proactive measures to ensure the structural integrity and safety of dams like Radnor in the face of evolving climate challenges.

Year Completed

1917

Dam Length

850

River Or Stream

OTTER CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

75

Hydraulic Height

45.5

Drainage Area

2.12

Nid Storage

2150

Structural Height

54

Outlet Gates

None

Hazard Potential

High

Nid Height

54
       
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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.