Melton Reservoir Report
Nearby: Veirs Country Lake Estates
Last Updated: December 15, 2025
Melton, located in Haywood County, Tennessee, is a private earth dam constructed in 1940 on Briar Creek.
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Summary
With a structural height of 15.6 feet and a hydraulic height of 12.5 feet, Melton has a maximum storage capacity of 57 acre-feet and a normal storage capacity of 35 acre-feet. The dam spans 575 feet in length and covers a surface area of 7 acres, serving the purpose of water storage and management in the region.
Despite being categorized as low hazard potential and having a moderate risk assessment rating of 3, Melton has not been rated for its current condition. The dam does not have any outlet gates and operates an uncontrolled spillway system. The last inspection conducted on Melton was in June 2018, with an inspection frequency of 5 years. While the dam does not fall under state jurisdiction for regulation and enforcement, it remains an essential structure for water resource management in the area.
Melton, situated in the Memphis District, is a vital component of the local water infrastructure, providing necessary storage and flood control measures along Briar Creek. As an earth dam with a long history of service, Melton stands as a testament to the importance of maintaining and monitoring water resources in a changing climate. Climate enthusiasts and water resource experts alike can appreciate the role that Melton plays in safeguarding the surrounding community and ecosystem.
Year Completed |
1940 |
Dam Length |
575 |
River Or Stream |
BRIAR CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
7 |
Hydraulic Height |
12.5 |
Drainage Area |
0.04 |
Nid Storage |
57 |
Structural Height |
15.6 |
Outlet Gates |
None |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Nid Height |
16 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
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.
Melton