Luray Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 6, 2025

Located in Henderson, Tennessee, the Luray dam is a state-regulated structure on the tributary of Forked Deer River.


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Summary

Completed in 1990, this earth-type dam stands at a structural height of 26 feet with a hydraulic height of 14.5 feet, providing a normal storage capacity of 500 acre-feet and a maximum storage of 1644 acre-feet. With a surface area of 64 acres and a drainage area of 2.96 square miles, Luray plays a crucial role in water resource management in the region.

Managed by the Tennessee Safe Dams Program, Luray dam has a low hazard potential and is currently rated as satisfactory in condition assessment as of July 2020. Despite its moderate risk level, the dam has not required any major modifications since its completion, showcasing its reliability in mitigating flood risks and maintaining water supply for local communities. The dam's emergency action plan status, risk assessment, and risk management measures are areas of interest for water resource and climate enthusiasts looking to understand the resilience of infrastructure in the face of changing environmental conditions.

With its location in the Nashville District and oversight by state regulatory agencies, Luray dam exemplifies effective state-level governance in ensuring dam safety and water resource management. As climate change continues to impact water availability and extreme weather events, the monitoring and maintenance of structures like Luray become essential in safeguarding communities and ecosystems. The combination of regulatory oversight, regular inspections, and emergency preparedness make Luray dam a significant asset in the sustainable management of water resources in Tennessee.

Year Completed

1990

Dam Length

800

River Or Stream

TRIBNO. FORK FORKED DEER

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

64

Hydraulic Height

14.5

Drainage Area

2.96

Nid Storage

1644

Structural Height

26

Outlet Gates

None

Hazard Potential

Low

Nid Height

26
       
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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.