Middle Fork Obion #5 Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 13, 2025
Middle Fork Obion #5, also known as Middle Fork Obion Dam 5, is a local government-owned structure located in Midway, Tennessee.
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Summary
Designed by the USDA NRCS, this earth dam stands at a hydraulic height of 10.2 feet and a structural height of 31 feet, with a length of 1170 feet. Completed in 1973, the dam serves primarily for flood risk reduction along the Middle Fork Obion River, covering a drainage area of 16.24 square miles.
With a storage capacity of 8695 acre-feet, Middle Fork Obion #5 plays a crucial role in debris control and flood risk reduction in the region. The dam's spillway type is uncontrolled, with a surface area of 150 acres and a normal storage capacity of 642 acre-feet. Despite being classified as having a significant hazard potential, the condition assessment in 2019 deemed it satisfactory, ensuring its continued effectiveness in mitigating flood risks.
Managed by the Tennessee Safe Dams Program, Middle Fork Obion #5 undergoes regular inspections every two years to maintain its structural integrity. With its moderate risk assessment and satisfactory condition, this dam stands as a vital infrastructure for water resource management and climate resilience in Henry County, Tennessee.
Year Completed |
1973 |
Dam Length |
1170 |
River Or Stream |
MIDDLE FORK OBION RIVER |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
150 |
Hydraulic Height |
10.2 |
Drainage Area |
16.24 |
Nid Storage |
8695 |
Structural Height |
31 |
Outlet Gates |
None |
Hazard Potential |
Significant |
Foundations |
Soil |
Nid Height |
31 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
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.
Middle Fork Obion #5