Chesser Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Chesser, located in Fisk, Alabama, is a privately owned dam situated on the TRIBHANCOCK BRANCH river in Lincoln County, Tennessee.


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Summary

Built in 1955, this Earth-type dam stands at a structural height of 17.6 feet with a hydraulic height of 14.4 feet and a length of 527 feet. Serving a primary purpose that is not specified, Chesser has a normal storage capacity of 73 acre-feet and a maximum storage capacity of 117 acre-feet, covering a surface area of 12 acres and draining an area of 0.38 square miles.

Despite being classified as having a low hazard potential, Chesser is subject to moderate risk, with a risk assessment rating of 3 out of 5. The dam has not been rated for its condition assessment, but has an inspection frequency of 5 years, with the last inspection conducted in October 2019. There are no emergency action plans in place, and the dam is not regulated or permitted by the state. With no associated structures or federal agency involvement, Chesser remains a focal point for water resource and climate enthusiasts interested in the management and sustainability of dams in the region.

Year Completed

1955

Dam Length

527

River Or Stream

TRIBHANCOCK BRANCH

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

12

Hydraulic Height

14.4

Drainage Area

0.38

Nid Storage

117

Structural Height

17.6

Outlet Gates

None

Hazard Potential

Low

Nid Height

18
       
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.