Porters Creek #5 Reservoir Report
Nearby: Porters Creek #4 Roger's Springs
Last Updated: December 6, 2025
Porters Creek #5, also known as Porters Creek Watershed Dam 5, is a state-owned structure located in Middleton, Tennessee.
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Summary
Built in 1964 by USDA NRCS, this earth dam stands at a height of 26 feet with a hydraulic height of 12.5 feet, serving the primary purpose of flood risk reduction along the Robertson Branch. With a normal storage capacity of 110 acre-feet and a maximum storage of 922 acre-feet, this dam covers a drainage area of 2.2 square miles and has a surface area of 25.4 acres.
Managed by the Tennessee Safe Dams Program, Porters Creek #5 has a low hazard potential and is deemed to be in satisfactory condition as of the last inspection in May 2019. Although it has no outlet gates, the dam features an uncontrolled spillway type. With a risk assessment rating of moderate (3), the structure is subject to regular inspections every three years to ensure its continued safety and effectiveness in mitigating flood risks in the region. As part of the efforts to manage and maintain this dam, the Tennessee state regulatory agency enforces necessary measures to uphold its structural integrity and functionality.
Water resource and climate enthusiasts interested in the impact of dams on flood control and water management in Tennessee can find Porters Creek #5 to be an intriguing case study. This earth dam, designed by the Natural Resources Conservation Service, plays a crucial role in protecting the local area from potential flooding events. With its history dating back to over half a century, this structure stands as a testament to the importance of proper infrastructure in safeguarding communities against natural disasters.
Year Completed |
1964 |
Dam Length |
1235 |
River Or Stream |
ROBERTSON BRANCH |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
25.4 |
Hydraulic Height |
12.5 |
Drainage Area |
2.2 |
Nid Storage |
922 |
Structural Height |
26 |
Outlet Gates |
None |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Soil |
Nid Height |
26 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Hatchie River Near Walnut
|
172cfs |
Hatchie River At Bolivar
|
933cfs |
Wolf River At Lagrange
|
223cfs |
Wolf River At Rossville
|
508cfs |
Horse Creek Near Savannah
|
83cfs |
Loosahatchie River Near Arlington
|
122cfs |
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.
Porters Creek #5