Freels Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 6, 2025

Freels, located in Haywood, Tennessee, is a privately owned dam on Poplar Creek that was completed in 1965.


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Summary

This earth dam stands at a structural height of 25 feet with a hydraulic height of 19 feet, creating a storage capacity of 76 acre-feet. Despite being categorized as low hazard potential, it is subject to a moderate risk assessment due to its location and characteristics.

While Freels does not fall under state regulation or inspection, its last inspection was conducted in July 2016, with an inspection frequency of 5 years. The dam's spillway type is listed as uncontrolled, and it has no outlet gates. With a surface area of 10 acres and a drainage area of 0.16 square miles, Freels serves as a vital structure in managing water resources in the region.

For water resource and climate enthusiasts, Freels presents an intriguing case study in dam infrastructure and risk management. With its unique design features and historical significance, this dam on Poplar Creek offers valuable insights into the intersection of water management, environmental stewardship, and public safety. As efforts continue to monitor and assess the condition of dams like Freels, there is a growing need for sustainable practices and proactive measures to ensure the resilience of our water infrastructure in the face of changing climate patterns.

Year Completed

1965

Dam Length

490

River Or Stream

POPLAR CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

10

Hydraulic Height

19

Drainage Area

0.16

Nid Storage

76

Structural Height

25

Outlet Gates

None

Hazard Potential

Low

Nid Height

25
       
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.