Pillow Lake Reservoir Report
Nearby: Roellen Clark Farm Lake
Last Updated: December 12, 2025
Pillow Lake in Tennessee, managed by the USDA NRCS, is a private earth dam constructed in 1951 for purposes including fire protection, stock, and small fish pond usage.
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Summary
Situated in Roellen, Dyer County, the lake spans 8.3 acres with a normal storage capacity of 54 acre-feet. With a low hazard potential and moderate risk assessment, Pillow Lake serves as a recreational spot and water source for the local community.
The dam's hydraulic height reaches 16.2 feet, with a structural height of 20.4 feet and a length of 360 feet. The spillway type is uncontrolled, and the dam is primarily made of earth and stone materials. Despite the lack of state regulation and inspection, Pillow Lake remains a vital resource in the region, supporting activities such as fishing and wildlife habitat preservation. With its scenic surroundings and historical significance, the lake continues to play an essential role in water conservation efforts and climate resilience strategies.
Although not federally owned or funded, Pillow Lake's role in providing water for fire protection and recreational activities highlights its importance in the local ecosystem. While not currently rated for condition assessment, the dam's stable structure and moderate risk level suggest a maintained focus on safety and environmental sustainability. As enthusiasts of water resources and climate action, Pillow Lake serves as a prime example of community-driven conservation efforts and the importance of sustainable water management practices in mitigating climate impacts on our natural landscapes.
Year Completed |
1951 |
Dam Length |
360 |
River Or Stream |
ROELLEN CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
8.3 |
Hydraulic Height |
16.2 |
Drainage Area |
0.23 |
Nid Storage |
90 |
Structural Height |
20.4 |
Outlet Gates |
None |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Soil |
Nid Height |
20 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Dam Data Reference
Condition Assessment
SatisfactoryNo 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
HighDams 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.
Pillow Lake