Herb Parsons Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 6, 2025

Herb Parsons is a state-regulated earth dam located in Fayette, Tennessee, near the city of Crossroads.


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Summary

Built in 1951, this dam on Mary's Creek serves a vital purpose in water resource management, with a hydraulic height of 35.1 feet and a structural height of 41.2 feet. The dam has a storage capacity of 3,260 acre-feet, with a normal storage level of 1,778 acre-feet and a surface area of 186 acres.

Despite being classified as having a significant hazard potential, Herb Parsons is in satisfactory condition according to a recent assessment in February 2020. The dam is regularly inspected by the Tennessee Safe Dams Program, with a frequency of twice a year. In the event of an emergency, the dam's emergency action plan status and contact information are currently not available. However, the risk assessment for Herb Parsons is moderate, with appropriate risk management measures in place.

For water resource and climate enthusiasts, Herb Parsons offers a fascinating case study in dam infrastructure and management. Situated in a picturesque location with a drainage area of 1.62 square miles, this dam plays a crucial role in water storage and flood control in the region. With its historical significance and ongoing regulatory oversight, Herb Parsons represents a blend of engineering excellence and environmental stewardship in the heart of Tennessee.

Year Completed

1951

Dam Length

1710

River Or Stream

MARY'S CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

186

Hydraulic Height

35.1

Drainage Area

1.62

Nid Storage

3260

Structural Height

41.2

Outlet Gates

None

Hazard Potential

Significant

Nid Height

41
       
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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.