Bethany Reservoir Report
Nearby: Walnut Fork Hico
Last Updated: December 13, 2025
Bethany, a state-owned dam located in Henry, Tennessee, plays a crucial role in the management of water resources in the area.
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Summary
Built in 1987, this earth dam stands at a structural height of 23.6 feet and spans a length of 425 feet, with a storage capacity of 64 acre-feet. Situated on the North Fork Obion River, Bethany is regulated by the Tennessee Safe Dams Program and undergoes regular inspections to ensure its structural integrity and public safety.
The dam's spillway, classified as uncontrolled, poses a significant hazard potential, although its condition assessment as of November 2020 was deemed satisfactory. With a moderate risk assessment rating of 3, the dam is equipped with emergency action plans to mitigate potential risks. Its risk management measures and adherence to guidelines ensure that Bethany is prepared for any unforeseen events and emergencies, highlighting its importance in safeguarding the local community and environment.
Managed by the state of Tennessee, Bethany's role in water resource management and climate resilience is underscored by its location within the Nashville District. With its strategic position on the North Fork Obion River, this dam serves as a vital infrastructure for flood control and water storage, embodying the collaborative efforts between state agencies and regulatory bodies to uphold the safety and sustainability of the region's water resources.
Year Completed |
1987 |
Dam Length |
425 |
River Or Stream |
NORTH FORK OBION RIVER |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Drainage Area |
0.75 |
Nid Storage |
64 |
Structural Height |
23.6 |
Outlet Gates |
None |
Hazard Potential |
Significant |
Nid Height |
24 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Clarks River At Murray
|
15cfs |
North Fork Obion River Near Martin
|
202cfs |
Clarks River At Almo
|
37cfs |
Crooked Creek Near Huntingdon
|
38cfs |
South Fork Obion River Near Greenfield
|
183cfs |
Bayou De Chien Near Clinton
|
28cfs |
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.
Bethany