Redbud Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 6, 2025

Redbud Dam, also known as Dry Creek Dam or Redbud Lake, is located in Chesterfield, Tennessee, within the Nashville District of the US Army Corps of Engineers.


°F

°F

mph

Wind

%

Humidity

Summary

Constructed in 1965 by the Tennessee Valley Authority (TVA), this federal-owned dam serves primarily for flood risk reduction. With a height of 31 feet and a length of 1320 feet, Redbud Dam has a storage capacity of 3140 acre-feet and a surface area of 211 acres, providing essential protection to the surrounding area from potential flooding events.

The dam controls the flow of Dry Creek and has an uncontrolled spillway with a width of 140 feet. Redbud Dam is composed of earth and stone materials with a soil foundation, reflecting its sturdy construction to withstand hydraulic pressures. While the dam's hazard potential is considered significant, its risk assessment is moderate, indicating a level of preparedness to manage any potential emergencies. Regular inspections and maintenance by the TVA ensure the structural integrity of Redbud Dam and contribute to its continued functionality in flood risk reduction efforts.

Recreationally, Redbud Dam also offers opportunities for outdoor activities in the surrounding area. With its strategic location and effective design, this federal-owned structure plays a crucial role in water resource management and climate resilience efforts in Henderson County, Tennessee. As water resource and climate enthusiasts, understanding the significance of dams like Redbud Dam highlights the importance of proactive measures to mitigate flood risks and safeguard communities against natural disasters.

Year Completed

1965

Dam Length

1320

Dam Height

31

River Or Stream

DRY CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

211

Hydraulic Height

30

Drainage Area

2.8

Nid Storage

3140

Structural Height

31

Outlet Gates

Other Controlled, Slide (sluice gate)

Hazard Potential

Significant

Foundations

Soil

Nid Height

31
       
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.