Lake Vonda Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 6, 2025

Lake Vonda, located in Hardeman, Tennessee, is a private dam regulated by the Tennessee Safe Dams Program.


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Summary

Built in 1973, this Earth type dam stands at a height of 47.7 feet with a hydraulic height of 41.9 feet. The dam has a storage capacity of 630 acre-feet, with a normal storage level of 420 acre-feet and a surface area of 33 acres. The dam is situated on Cub Creek and is under the jurisdiction of the state of Tennessee for permitting, inspection, and enforcement.

With a significant hazard potential and a satisfactory condition assessment as of October 2020, Lake Vonda poses a moderate risk (level 3) according to the data available. The dam has an uncontrolled spillway type and no outlet gates, with no associated locks for navigation. Despite its risk level, the dam has not undergone any modifications in recent years and has a regular inspection frequency of every 2 years to ensure its structural integrity and safe operation.

For water resource and climate enthusiasts, Lake Vonda offers a fascinating case study of a privately owned dam in Tennessee, showcasing the importance of state regulation and inspection in ensuring the safety and maintenance of critical infrastructure. The dam's location on Cub Creek and its role in storing water for various purposes highlight the interconnectedness of water resources management and climate resilience. As an earth type dam with a moderate risk level, Lake Vonda serves as a reminder of the ongoing need for proactive risk management measures to protect communities and the environment from potential dam failures.

Year Completed

1973

Dam Length

766

River Or Stream

CUB CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

33

Hydraulic Height

41.9

Drainage Area

0.26

Nid Storage

630

Structural Height

47.7

Outlet Gates

None

Hazard Potential

Significant

Nid Height

48
       
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.