Elk River Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Elk River Dam, also known as Woods Reservoir, is a concrete dam located in Estill Springs, Tennessee, along the Elk River.


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Summary

With a primary purpose of flood risk reduction, this dam also serves for recreation and water supply. Built by the US Air Force, the dam stands at a height of 82 feet and has a hydraulic height of 75 feet, with a storage capacity of over 100,000 acre-feet and a maximum discharge of 101,000 cubic feet per second.

The dam features a controlled spillway with a width of 150 feet and is equipped with slide and tainter gates for water release. Despite its high hazard potential, the dam's condition assessment is not available, and the last inspection was conducted in August 2015. In 2011, mechanical modifications were made to the dam, ensuring its continued functionality and safety. Elk River Dam is vital for managing water resources in the region and plays a crucial role in mitigating flood risks while providing recreational opportunities and water supply for the community.

Water resource and climate enthusiasts will find Elk River Dam a fascinating infrastructure, showcasing the intersection of engineering, environmental management, and public safety. As a federal-owned structure, the dam contributes to the overall water management strategy in Tennessee, protecting downstream areas from flooding and ensuring a stable water supply for various purposes. With a very high risk rating and a history of successful risk management measures, Elk River Dam stands as a testament to the importance of sustainable water resource management in the face of changing climate conditions.

Years Modified

2011 - Mechanical

Dam Length

2943

Dam Height

82

River Or Stream

ELK RIVER

Primary Dam Type

Concrete

Surface Area

3910

Hydraulic Height

75

Drainage Area

263

Nid Storage

101844

Structural Height

82

Outlet Gates

Slide (sluice gate) - 2, Tainter (radial) - 3

Hazard Potential

High

Foundations

Soil

Nid Height

82
       
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.