Thompson Reservoir Report

Nearby: Blake Osage

Last Updated: December 13, 2025

Located in Henry, Tennessee, the Thompson dam stands as a testament to human ingenuity and resource management.


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Summary

Completed in 1999, this private-owned Earth-type dam serves a primary purpose of "Other," with a hydraulic height of 23.3 feet and a structural height of 25 feet. With a storage capacity of 22 acre-feet, the dam's normal storage level is at 18 acre-feet, covering a surface area of 2 acres.

Despite its low hazard potential and moderate risk assessment, Thompson dam has not been rated for its condition. The dam's spillway type is "Uncontrolled," and it is not equipped with outlet gates. While it has not undergone any modifications since its completion, the dam is inspected every five years, with the last inspection taking place in April 2019. The surrounding area is not regulated by the state, and there are no associated structures or locks.

As climate change continues to impact water resources, the Thompson dam serves as a crucial infrastructure for water regulation and management in the region. Its presence contributes to the overall resilience of the area, providing a buffer against potential flooding events. With its uncontrolled spillway and lack of state jurisdiction, the dam represents a unique case study in private ownership and operation within the larger context of water resource management in Tennessee.

Year Completed

1999

Dam Length

194

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

2

Hydraulic Height

23.3

Nid Storage

22

Structural Height

25

Outlet Gates

None

Hazard Potential

Low

Nid Height

25
       
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.