Cow Lake Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 6, 2025

Cow Lake, located in Fayette, Tennessee, is a private water resource managed without state regulation.


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Summary

Built in 1959, this Earth dam stands at 14.5 feet tall and has a hydraulic height of 12.7 feet, serving primarily as a flood control structure on Alexander Creek. With a storage capacity of 89 acre-feet and a surface area of 12.9 acres, this reservoir plays a vital role in managing water resources in the region.

Despite its low hazard potential and moderate risk assessment, Cow Lake has not been rated for its condition, and its emergency action plan remains unprepared. With a regular inspection frequency of 5 years, this dam continues to support the surrounding community while facing the challenges of climate change and evolving water management practices. As a key feature in the local landscape, Cow Lake stands as a testament to the intersection of human engineering and environmental stewardship in the face of a changing climate.

Year Completed

1959

Dam Length

299

River Or Stream

ALEXANDER CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

12.9

Hydraulic Height

12.7

Drainage Area

0.07

Nid Storage

89

Structural Height

14.5

Outlet Gates

None

Hazard Potential

Low

Nid Height

15
       
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.