Beech Dam Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 6, 2025
Beech Dam, also known as Beech Lake Dam, is a federal-owned structure located in Henderson, Tennessee.
°F
°F
mph
Wind
%
Humidity
Summary
Built in 1963 by the Tennessee Valley Authority (TVA), this earth dam stands at a height of 44 feet and serves primarily for flood risk reduction purposes. It spans 1615 feet in length and has a maximum storage capacity of 15,500 acre-feet, with a normal storage of 11,070 acre-feet.
Situated on the Beech River, Beech Dam plays a crucial role in regulating water flow and protecting the surrounding areas from potential flood risks. With a hazard potential rated as high, regular inspections are carried out to ensure its structural integrity and safety. Despite its importance in flood management, the dam also offers recreational opportunities and serves as a water supply source for the region.
Managed and operated by the TVA, Beech Dam features uncontrolled spillways and outlet gates for water release. With a moderate risk assessment rating, the dam continues to be an essential infrastructure for water resource management in the area. Climate and water resource enthusiasts will find Beech Dam a fascinating example of engineering ingenuity and environmental stewardship in the face of changing weather patterns and water management challenges.
Year Completed |
1963 |
Dam Length |
1615 |
Dam Height |
44 |
River Or Stream |
BEECH RIVER |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
877 |
Hydraulic Height |
40 |
Drainage Area |
15.74 |
Nid Storage |
15500 |
Structural Height |
44 |
Outlet Gates |
Other Controlled, Slide (sluice gate) |
Hazard Potential |
High |
Foundations |
Soil |
Nid Height |
44 |
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.
Beech Dam