Byrd Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 6, 2025

Byrd is a private dam located in Haywood County, Tennessee, along the South Fork Forked Deer River.


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Summary

Built in 1975, this earth dam stands at a structural height of 25.1 feet, with a hydraulic height of 19.7 feet and a length of 560 feet. Byrd has a storage capacity of 178 acre-feet and covers a surface area of 14.4 acres, serving as a critical water resource for the region.

Despite not being regulated by the state, Byrd is considered to have a high hazard potential, with a moderate risk assessment rating. The dam has not been inspected since July 2017 and is categorized as "Not Rated" in terms of its condition. With an inspection frequency of 5 years, it is crucial for the owners to prioritize regular maintenance and risk management measures to ensure the safety and integrity of the structure.

The presence of Byrd highlights the importance of proper dam management and the need for emergency action planning in case of a potential hazard. As an enthusiast in water resources and climate, staying informed about the condition and risk assessment of dams like Byrd is essential in promoting sustainable water management practices and mitigating potential threats to both the environment and surrounding communities.

Year Completed

1975

Dam Length

560

River Or Stream

SOUTH FORK FORKED DEER R.

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

14.4

Hydraulic Height

19.7

Drainage Area

0.2

Nid Storage

178

Structural Height

25.1

Outlet Gates

None

Hazard Potential

High

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.