Pioneer #5 Reservoir Report
Nearby: Pioneer #3 Pioneer #4
Last Updated: December 5, 2025
Pioneer #5 is a privately owned earth dam located in Dyer, Tennessee, along the Forked Deer River.
°F
°F
mph
Wind
%
Humidity
Summary
Constructed in 1945, this dam stands at a height of 28.6 feet and has a hydraulic height of 25.3 feet, providing a storage capacity of 138 acre-feet. With a surface area of 10.2 acres and a drainage area of 0.04 square miles, Pioneer #5 plays a crucial role in managing water resources in the region.
Managed by the Tennessee Safe Dams Program, Pioneer #5 has a high hazard potential but is currently deemed to be in satisfactory condition following its last inspection in July 2020. Despite its moderate risk assessment, the dam meets regulatory requirements for state permitting, inspection, and enforcement. With a maximum storage capacity of 138 acre-feet and a normal storage level of 103 acre-feet, the dam serves as a key infrastructure for flood control and water supply management in the area.
With its uncontrolled spillway type and absence of outlet gates, Pioneer #5 presents unique challenges in emergency preparedness and risk management. However, its satisfactory condition assessment and regular inspections ensure that the dam continues to provide essential water resource services while mitigating potential risks to surrounding communities. For water resource and climate enthusiasts, Pioneer #5 serves as a fascinating example of infrastructure that plays a critical role in balancing water resource management with safety and environmental considerations.
Year Completed |
1945 |
Dam Length |
400 |
River Or Stream |
FORKED DEER RIVER |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
10.2 |
Hydraulic Height |
25.3 |
Drainage Area |
0.04 |
Nid Storage |
138 |
Structural Height |
28.6 |
Outlet Gates |
None |
Hazard Potential |
High |
Nid Height |
29 |
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.
Pioneer #5