Susan Branch #1 Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 10, 2025

Susan Branch #1 is a state-regulated dam located in Henderson, Tennessee, specifically in the city of Cedar Grove.


°F

°F

mph

Wind

%

Humidity

Summary

Built in 1977, this earthen dam stands at a structural height of 20 feet and has a hydraulic height of 11 feet, with a total dam length of 670 feet. The dam has a normal storage capacity of 60 acre-feet and a maximum storage capacity of 330 acre-feet, serving the purpose of water resource management in the area.

Managed by the Tennessee Safe Dams Program, Susan Branch #1 has been classified as having a significant hazard potential but is currently in satisfactory condition, as assessed in February 2019. The dam has an inspection frequency of 2 years and is equipped with uncontrolled spillways. Despite its moderate risk assessment rating, the dam meets regulatory guidelines and is maintained to ensure the safety of surrounding communities and the ecological balance of the Susan Branch waterway.

With a drainage area of 0.42 square miles, Susan Branch #1 plays a crucial role in flood control and water supply management in the region. The dam's association with the Nashville District and its compliance with state permitting, inspection, and enforcement regulations highlight its importance in maintaining water resource sustainability and climate resilience in the area.

Year Completed

1977

Dam Length

670

River Or Stream

SUSAN BRANCH

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

21

Hydraulic Height

11

Drainage Area

0.42

Nid Storage

330

Structural Height

20

Outlet Gates

None

Hazard Potential

Significant

Nid Height

20
       
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.