Middle Fork Obion #2 Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 13, 2025

Middle Fork Obion #2, also known as Middle Fork Obion River Dam 2, is a significant Earth dam located in Sharon, Henry County, Tennessee.


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Summary

Constructed in 1972 by the USDA NRCS, this dam serves the primary purpose of flood risk reduction along Old Town Creek. With a hydraulic height of 10.5 feet and a structural height of 25.5 feet, this dam has a NID storage capacity of 2209 acre-feet and a normal storage capacity of 172 acre-feet, covering a surface area of 48 acres.

Managed by the Tennessee Safe Dams Program, Middle Fork Obion #2 is state regulated, inspected, and enforced to ensure its structural integrity and safety. The dam has an uncontrolled spillway type and is associated with no lock structures. With a hazard potential rated as significant and a moderate risk assessment, this dam plays a crucial role in mitigating flood risks in the region. Despite being in operation for nearly 50 years, the dam's condition remains unrated, highlighting the need for ongoing monitoring and maintenance to uphold its functionality.

Water resource and climate enthusiasts will find Middle Fork Obion #2 a fascinating example of infrastructure designed to manage and reduce flood risks in Tennessee. Its strategic location along Old Town Creek and its impressive storage capacity make it a key player in safeguarding the surrounding area from potential inundation. With a history dating back to the early 1970s and ongoing state oversight, this Earth dam stands as a testament to the importance of proactive dam management in the face of changing climate conditions.

Year Completed

1972

Dam Length

893

River Or Stream

OLD TOWN CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

48

Hydraulic Height

10.5

Drainage Area

4.72

Nid Storage

2209

Structural Height

25.5

Outlet Gates

None

Hazard Potential

Significant

Foundations

Soil

Nid Height

26
       
Seasonal Comparison

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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.