New Shoal Creek Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

New Shoal Creek in Lawrence, Tennessee is a privately owned dam that has been regulated by the Tennessee Safe Dams Program.


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Summary

Completed in 1924, this earth dam stands at a structural height of 45 feet and has a hydraulic height of 43.3 feet. With a storage capacity of 989 acre-feet and a drainage area of 85.8 square miles, it serves as a vital infrastructure for water resource management in the region.

Despite its age, New Shoal Creek dam is in satisfactory condition and has a significant hazard potential, which is regularly monitored through inspections conducted every two years. The dam's spillway type is classified as uncontrolled, and it has a surface area of 54 acres. Located on the Shoal Creek river, this dam plays a crucial role in regulating water flow and providing essential water storage for various purposes in the surrounding area.

In the event of an emergency, the dam's condition assessment and risk assessment have been conducted to ensure the safety of nearby residents. With a moderate risk rating of 3, the dam's risk management measures are in place to mitigate any potential hazards. Overall, New Shoal Creek dam stands as a testament to sustainable water resource management practices and serves as a key asset in the region's efforts to adapt to changing climate conditions.

Year Completed

1924

Dam Length

473

River Or Stream

SHOAL CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

54

Hydraulic Height

43.3

Drainage Area

85.8

Nid Storage

989

Structural Height

45

Outlet Gates

None

Hazard Potential

Significant

Nid Height

45
       
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.