Beech Dam - Saddle Dam No. 1 Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 6, 2025
Beech Dam - Saddle Dam No.
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Summary
1, also known as Beech Lake or Beech River Dam, stands as a testament to the impressive engineering prowess of the Tennessee Valley Authority (TVA). Completed in 1963, this federal-owned earth dam spans 180 feet in length and reaches a height of 9 feet, providing crucial flood risk reduction for the region. Situated on the scenic Beech River in Henderson, Tennessee, this dam serves multiple purposes, including flood risk reduction, recreation, and water supply.
Managed and operated by the TVA, Beech Dam - Saddle Dam No. 1 is a core stone dam built on a soil foundation. With a design height of 9 feet and a hydraulic height of 2 feet, this dam plays a vital role in regulating water flow and protecting the surrounding area from potential hazards. Despite its high hazard potential, the dam is subject to regular inspections and meets stringent safety guidelines to ensure its continued reliability and effectiveness in mitigating flood risks. As a key component of the Tennessee Valley Authority's infrastructure, Beech Dam - Saddle Dam No. 1 exemplifies the agency's commitment to sustainable water resource management and climate resilience in the region.
Year Completed |
1963 |
Dam Length |
180 |
Dam Height |
9 |
River Or Stream |
BEECH RIVER |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Hydraulic Height |
2 |
Structural Height |
9 |
Outlet Gates |
None |
Hazard Potential |
High |
Foundations |
Soil |
Nid Height |
9 |
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 - Saddle Dam No. 1