Hico Reservoir Report
Nearby: Shell Branch Mill Creek
Last Updated: December 13, 2025
Hico is a state-regulated dam located in Henry, Tennessee, along the TRIBNORTH FORK OBION RIV.
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Summary
Built in 1987, this earth dam stands at a structural height of 21.4 feet and spans 855 feet in length, with a maximum storage capacity of 250 acre-feet. The dam is under the oversight of the TENNESSEE SAFE DAMS PROGRAM, ensuring that it undergoes regular inspections, with the last assessment conducted in November 2020 revealing a satisfactory condition.
Despite its moderate risk assessment of level 3, Hico poses a significant hazard potential due to its uncontrolled spillway type. The dam is not equipped with outlet gates and has no associated locks. While it has not been modified over the years, the dam's emergency action plan status, inundation maps, and risk management measures are not specified in the available data. With a designated inspection frequency of 2, Hico remains an essential structure for water resource and climate enthusiasts to monitor closely for any potential safety concerns or maintenance needs.
Year Completed |
1987 |
Dam Length |
855 |
River Or Stream |
TRIBNORTH FORK OBION RIV |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Drainage Area |
0.78 |
Nid Storage |
250 |
Structural Height |
21.4 |
Outlet Gates |
None |
Hazard Potential |
Significant |
Nid Height |
21 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Clarks River At Murray
|
15cfs |
Clarks River At Almo
|
37cfs |
North Fork Obion River Near Martin
|
202cfs |
Crooked Creek Near Huntingdon
|
38cfs |
Big Sandy River At Bruceton
|
104cfs |
South Fork Obion River Near Greenfield
|
183cfs |
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.
Hico