Middle Fork Obion #9 Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 13, 2025

Middle Fork Obion #9, also known as Middle Fork Obion River 9 Dam, is a flood risk reduction structure located in Sharon, Henry County, Tennessee.


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Summary

Built in 1970 by the USDA NRCS, this earth dam stands at a height of 36.3 feet and has a hydraulic height of 17.5 feet. With a storage capacity of 617 acre-feet and a drainage area of 1.53 square miles, the dam serves the primary purpose of flood risk reduction along the Middle Fork Obion River.

Managed by the Tennessee Safe Dams Program, Middle Fork Obion #9 is classified as having a significant hazard potential and is inspected biennially to ensure its structural integrity and safety. The dam's condition assessment in September 2019 deemed it satisfactory, with a moderate risk rating of 3. While there are no associated structures or outlet gates, the dam features an uncontrolled spillway and a stone core foundation, showcasing its resilience in managing water flow during flood events.

Middle Fork Obion #9 plays a crucial role in protecting the surrounding community from the impacts of flooding, highlighting the importance of proper infrastructure in water resource management and climate resilience efforts. As a vital component of the flood control system in the area, this dam serves as a testament to the collaborative efforts of local government agencies and the USDA NRCS in safeguarding lives and property from the dangers of excess water flow in the Middle Fork Obion River.

Year Completed

1970

Dam Length

812

River Or Stream

MIDDLE FORK OBION RIVER

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

17.5

Hydraulic Height

17.5

Drainage Area

1.53

Nid Storage

617

Structural Height

36.3

Outlet Gates

None

Hazard Potential

Significant

Foundations

Soil

Nid Height

36
       
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.