Gibson County Lake Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 10, 2025

Gibson County Lake, located in Gibson County, Tennessee, is a local government-owned reservoir that serves as a popular recreational spot for water resource and climate enthusiasts.


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Summary

Constructed in 1999 by Continental Engineering, Inc., this earth dam on the Tributary Fork of the Forked Deer River is regulated by the Tennessee Safe Dams Program, ensuring its safety and compliance with state regulations. With a hydraulic height of 38 feet and a structural height of 46 feet, this dam has a storage capacity of 12,701 acre-feet and covers a surface area of 565 acres.

The primary purpose of Gibson County Lake is recreation, although it also serves as a flood risk reduction measure for the surrounding area. Despite its high hazard potential, the dam is currently rated as not assessed for condition and has an inspection frequency of twice a year. While there are no outlet gates or locks associated with the dam, it does have an uncontrolled spillway. With a moderate risk assessment rating, the reservoir offers a serene environment for outdoor activities while also addressing the region's flood control needs. Overall, Gibson County Lake is a valuable asset for the community and a must-visit destination for those interested in water resource management and climate resilience.

Year Completed

1999

Dam Length

4150

River Or Stream

TRIBNO. FORK FORKED DEER

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

565

Hydraulic Height

38

Drainage Area

5.4

Nid Storage

12701

Structural Height

46

Outlet Gates

None

Hazard Potential

High

Nid Height

46
       
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.