Sammons Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 6, 2025

Sammons is a privately owned earth dam located in Hillville, Tennessee, along Richland Creek.


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Summary

Built in 1955, this dam stands at a structural height of 29 feet with a hydraulic height of 27.2 feet. It has a storage capacity of 117 acre-feet and covers a surface area of 9.2 acres, serving the purpose of water resource management in the region.

Despite being categorized as having a low hazard potential, Sammons faces moderate risk due to its condition being labeled as "Not Rated." The dam has not been inspected since July 2016, with an inspection frequency of every 5 years. While no emergency action plan (EAP) has been prepared or updated for the dam, it is crucial for stakeholders to consider implementing risk management measures to mitigate potential hazards and ensure the safety of the surrounding community.

With its uncontrolled spillway type and lack of outlet gates, Sammons presents a unique challenge for water resource and climate enthusiasts. It is important for authorities and stakeholders to address the dam's condition assessment, conduct regular inspections, and develop an EAP to meet guidelines and improve risk management practices. By taking proactive measures, Sammons can continue to fulfill its role in water resource management while ensuring the safety and security of the area.

Year Completed

1955

Dam Length

400

River Or Stream

RICHLAND CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

9.2

Hydraulic Height

27.2

Drainage Area

0.12

Nid Storage

117

Structural Height

29

Outlet Gates

None

Hazard Potential

Low

Nid Height

29
       
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.