Pickwick Landing Dam Reservoir Report
Nearby: Leisure Lake Timberline Estates Lake
Last Updated: December 5, 2025
Pickwick Landing Dam, located in Tennessee along the Tennessee River, is a marvel of engineering designed by the Tennessee Valley Authority (TVA) in 1938.
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Summary
This concrete dam stands at 113 feet high and serves multiple purposes, including flood risk reduction, hydroelectric power generation, navigation, recreation, and water supply. With a storage capacity of over 1.5 million acre-feet and a surface area of 42,700 acres, Pickwick Lake, as it is often referred to, provides crucial resources to the region.
The dam features a controlled spillway with a width of 1141 feet and two vertical lift outlet gates. It also includes two locks that are 1000 feet long and 110 feet wide, facilitating navigation along the river. In 2020, the dam underwent seismic modifications to enhance its structural integrity and hazard potential rating, which is deemed high. Despite being owned and operated by the TVA, the dam is also regulated and inspected by the US Army Corps of Engineers, ensuring its continued safe operation and risk management.
Water resource and climate enthusiasts will appreciate the significance of Pickwick Landing Dam in mitigating flooding, generating clean energy, and providing recreational opportunities in the region. With its strategic location along the Tennessee River and advanced infrastructure, this concrete marvel stands as a testament to sustainable water management and multi-purpose dam design. As climate challenges persist, the dam remains a crucial asset in safeguarding communities and ecosystems against water-related risks.
Years Modified |
2020 - Seismic |
Year Completed |
1938 |
Dam Length |
7715 |
Dam Height |
51 |
River Or Stream |
TENNESSEE RIVER |
Primary Dam Type |
Concrete |
Surface Area |
42700 |
Length Of Locks |
1000 |
Hydraulic Height |
91 |
Drainage Area |
32820 |
Nid Storage |
1546740 |
Structural Height |
113 |
Outlet Gates |
Vertical Lift |
Hazard Potential |
High |
Foundations |
Rock, Soil |
Nid Height |
113 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Horse Creek Near Savannah
|
87cfs |
Bear Creek At Bishop
|
4330cfs |
Hatchie River Near Walnut
|
153cfs |
Cypress Creek Near Florence Al
|
152cfs |
Buffalo River Near Flat Woods
|
443cfs |
Shoal Creek At Iron City
|
422cfs |
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.
Pickwick Landing Dam