Chickamauga Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Chickamauga Dam, located on the Tennessee River in Hamilton County, Tennessee, is a captivating feat of engineering designed by the Tennessee Valley Authority (TVA) and completed in 1940.


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Summary

Standing at a height of 129 feet and with a maximum storage capacity of 737,300 acre-feet, this concrete dam serves multiple purposes including flood risk reduction, hydroelectric power generation, navigation, recreation, and water supply. Its impressive spillway, controlled by vertical lift gates, ensures the safe release of excess water during periods of high discharge.

With a hazard potential rated as high and a risk assessment indicating a very high level of risk (1), Chickamauga Dam is closely monitored and maintained by the TVA to ensure its structural integrity and continued functionality. The dam's location in the scenic Chickamauga Lake area offers visitors recreational opportunities such as boating, fishing, and camping, making it a popular destination for water resource and climate enthusiasts alike. Additionally, the dam plays a crucial role in managing the flow of the Tennessee River and mitigating flood risks for the surrounding communities.

As a federal structure owned, funded, and operated by the TVA, Chickamauga Dam exemplifies the collaboration between government agencies in managing water resources and climate-related challenges. Its strategic placement and design contribute to the overall resilience of the region's water infrastructure, highlighting the importance of sustainable water management practices in the face of evolving climate conditions.

Year Completed

1940

Dam Length

5800

Dam Height

129

River Or Stream

TENNESSEE RIVER

Primary Dam Type

Concrete

Surface Area

36050

Length Of Locks

360

Hydraulic Height

119

Drainage Area

20790

Nid Storage

737300

Structural Height

129

Outlet Gates

Vertical Lift

Hazard Potential

High

Foundations

Rock, Soil

Nid Height

129
       
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.