Steelman Lake Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Steelman Lake, located in Lincoln County, Tennessee, is a picturesque Earth dam structure built in 1962 by the USDA NRCS.


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Summary

Serving primarily for recreational purposes, this reservoir spans 7.5 surface acres and has a maximum storage capacity of 58 acre-feet. With a hydraulic height of 13.8 feet and a structural height of 15.8 feet, Steelman Lake stands as a significant water resource in the region for both residents and visitors alike.

While the dam's hazard potential is deemed significant, its condition assessment remains unrated as of the last inspection in October 2019. Despite this, the risk assessment for Steelman Lake is moderate, indicating a level 3 risk. With no outlet gates and an uncontrolled spillway type, the lake is a vital part of the local ecosystem, providing essential water supply and recreational opportunities. As an Earth dam with a Stone core type, Steelman Lake is a testament to the importance of sustainable water management practices in ensuring the longevity and safety of such water structures in the face of changing climate conditions.

Year Completed

1962

Dam Length

565

River Or Stream

TRIBTROTTERS BRANCH

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

7.5

Hydraulic Height

13.8

Drainage Area

0.28

Nid Storage

58

Structural Height

15.8

Outlet Gates

None

Hazard Potential

Significant

Foundations

Rock, Soil

Nid Height

16
       
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.