Thompson Creek #5 Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 13, 2025
Thompson Creek #5, also known as Thompson Creek 5 Dam, is a private earth dam located in Henry, Tennessee.
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Summary
Built in 1959 by the USDA NRCS, this dam primarily serves the purpose of flood risk reduction along the Capps Branch river. With a hydraulic height of 14 feet and a structural height of 24 feet, Thompson Creek #5 has a storage capacity of 458 acre-feet and covers a surface area of 22.8 acres.
Managed by the Tennessee Safe Dams Program, Thompson Creek #5 is classified as having a low hazard potential and is in satisfactory condition as of the last inspection in July 2019. The dam has a moderate risk assessment rating of 3, indicating a moderate level of risk associated with its operation. Although it does not have outlet gates, the dam features an uncontrolled spillway and is regulated, permitted, inspected, and enforced by the state of Tennessee.
For water resource and climate enthusiasts, Thompson Creek #5 presents an interesting case study in private dam management and flood risk reduction efforts. With its historical significance and ongoing regulatory oversight, this dam serves as a valuable asset in protecting the surrounding community from potential flooding events. Its location in the Nashville District and association with the Natural Resources Conservation Service highlight the collaborative efforts involved in maintaining and monitoring the safety of this essential infrastructure.
Year Completed |
1959 |
Dam Length |
581 |
River Or Stream |
CAPPS BRANCH |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
22.8 |
Hydraulic Height |
14 |
Drainage Area |
1.11 |
Nid Storage |
458 |
Structural Height |
24 |
Outlet Gates |
None |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Soil |
Nid Height |
24 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Crooked Creek Near Huntingdon
|
38cfs |
North Fork Obion River Near Martin
|
202cfs |
South Fork Obion River Near Greenfield
|
183cfs |
Clarks River At Murray
|
15cfs |
Big Sandy River At Bruceton
|
104cfs |
Clarks River At Almo
|
37cfs |
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.
Thompson Creek #5