Summary
Built in 1965 by the USDA NRCS, this Earth dam on West Sandy Creek serves multiple purposes, including fire protection, stock, and small fish pond management, as well as recreation. With a hydraulic height of 21.5 feet and a structural height of 23 feet, the dam has a storage capacity of 71 acre-feet and covers a surface area of 7 acres with a drainage area of 0.06 square miles.
Despite its low hazard potential, Weaks Lake remains an essential asset for the local community, providing valuable water resources for various needs. The dam has not been rated for its condition assessment but undergoes inspections every 5 years to ensure its safety and stability. The risk assessment for the dam is moderate, indicating a need for ongoing monitoring and risk management measures to mitigate any potential hazards. While it does not fall under USACE jurisdiction, Weaks Lake stands as a testament to responsible water resource management in the region.
Water resource and climate enthusiasts have a lot to appreciate about Weaks Lake, from its historical construction by the USDA NRCS to its diverse range of functions, including fire protection and recreational opportunities. Located in the scenic surroundings of Henry, Tennessee, this privately owned dam on West Sandy Creek offers a serene setting for visitors to enjoy nature while also serving practical purposes for water storage and small-scale fishing activities. As an Earth dam with a stone core and soil foundation, Weaks Lake represents a harmonious blend of human engineering and environmental stewardship, highlighting the importance of sustainable water management practices in the face of changing climate conditions.
Year Completed |
1965 |
Dam Length |
320 |
River Or Stream |
WEST SANDY CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
7 |
Hydraulic Height |
21.5 |
Drainage Area |
0.06 |
Nid Storage |
71 |
Structural Height |
23 |
Outlet Gates |
None |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Soil |
Nid Height |
23 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Big Sandy River At Bruceton
|
104cfs |
Cypress Creek At Camden
|
2cfs |
Crooked Creek Near Huntingdon
|
38cfs |
Clarks River At Murray
|
15cfs |
Clarks River At Almo
|
37cfs |
South Fork Obion River Near Greenfield
|
183cfs |
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.
Weaks Lake