New Enterprise Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 7, 2025
New Enterprise is a state-owned dam situated in Gibson, Tennessee, along the North Fork Forked Deer River.
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Summary
Built in 1982, this earth dam stands at a height of 22 feet and has a length of 450 feet, providing a storage capacity of 236 acre-feet. The dam is regulated by the Tennessee Safe Dams Program and undergoes regular inspections, with its hazard potential rated as low and its condition assessed as satisfactory.
Despite its low hazard potential, New Enterprise still poses moderate risk, prompting the need for risk management measures to be in place. The dam features an uncontrolled spillway and has a moderate drainage area of 0.33 square miles. Its inspection frequency is every three years, with the most recent assessment conducted in October 2019. Located within the Memphis District, the dam operates under state jurisdiction and is subject to state permitting, inspection, and enforcement protocols.
Water resource and climate enthusiasts will find New Enterprise to be an intriguing case study for understanding the management and regulation of dams in Tennessee. With its moderate risk assessment and satisfactory condition, this state-owned structure serves as a valuable asset for water storage and flood control along the North Fork Forked Deer River. As efforts continue to ensure its safety and functionality, New Enterprise exemplifies the importance of proactive monitoring and maintenance in safeguarding water resources and communities from potential hazards.
Year Completed |
1982 |
Dam Length |
450 |
River Or Stream |
NORTH FORK FORKED DEER R. |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
0.8 |
Drainage Area |
0.33 |
Nid Storage |
236 |
Structural Height |
22 |
Outlet Gates |
None |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Nid Height |
22 |
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.
New Enterprise