John Sevier Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

John Sevier Dam, also known as John Sevier Detention Dam, is a concrete structure located on the Holston River in Hawkins, Tennessee.


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Summary

Built in 1955 by the Tennessee Valley Authority (TVA), this dam serves as a vital water supply source with a storage capacity of 5,500 acre-feet. With a height of 20 feet and a hydraulic height of 45 feet, the dam plays a crucial role in regulating water flow and ensuring a stable water supply for the region.

The dam, with a length of 1,110 feet and a spillway width of 636 feet, has a significant hazard potential and is classified as having a moderate risk level. Despite its age, the dam remains in good condition as per the latest inspection in December 2020, with an inspection frequency of every 2 years. Operated and maintained by the TVA, the John Sevier Dam exemplifies the agency's commitment to water resource management and safety in the region.

With its primary purpose being water supply, the John Sevier Dam stands as a testament to engineering excellence and serves as a crucial infrastructure for water storage and management on the Holston River. As a Federal-owned structure, it continues to play a pivotal role in ensuring water security and flood control measures in the area, highlighting the importance of responsible water resource management in the face of climate change and increasing water demands.

Year Completed

1955

Dam Length

1110

Dam Height

20

River Or Stream

HOLSTON RIVER

Primary Dam Type

Concrete

Surface Area

660

Hydraulic Height

45

Drainage Area

3006

Nid Storage

5500

Structural Height

48

Outlet Gates

Uncontrolled

Hazard Potential

Significant

Foundations

Rock

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.