Pin Oak Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 6, 2025

Pin Oak Dam, also known as Browns Creek Dam or Pin Oak Lake, is a Federal-owned structure managed by the Tennessee Valley Authority (TVA).


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Summary

Located in Henderson, Tennessee, this earth dam was completed in 1964 for the primary purpose of flood risk reduction along Browns Creek. With a height of 44 feet and a storage capacity of 12,700 acre-feet, the dam serves to protect the surrounding area from potential flooding events.

In addition to its flood risk reduction function, Pin Oak Dam also offers recreational opportunities with a surface area of 663 acres for visitors to enjoy. The dam features an uncontrolled spillway with a width of 250 feet and outlet gates for controlled releases. The Tennessee Valley Authority oversees the design, construction, regulatory, inspection, and operation aspects of the dam to ensure its structural integrity and safety.

Despite its significant hazard potential, Pin Oak Dam is assessed to have a moderate risk level. Regular inspections and emergency action plans are in place to address any potential risks and ensure the safety of the dam and the surrounding community. Water resource and climate enthusiasts can appreciate the engineering feat and the crucial role that Pin Oak Dam plays in managing water flow and mitigating flood risks in the region.

Year Completed

1964

Dam Length

1220

Dam Height

44

River Or Stream

BROWNS CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

663

Hydraulic Height

42

Drainage Area

11.5

Nid Storage

12700

Structural Height

44

Outlet Gates

Other Controlled, Slide (sluice gate)

Hazard Potential

Significant

Foundations

Soil

Nid Height

44
       
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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.