Ellison Lake Reservoir Report
Nearby: Davis Lake Lake Elaine
Last Updated: December 13, 2025
Ellison Lake in Tennessee is a privately owned water resource primarily utilized for fire protection and as a stock or small fish pond.
°F
°F
mph
Wind
%
Humidity
Summary
The dam type is earth, with a hydraulic height of 16 feet and a structural height of 20 feet. The lake has a maximum storage capacity of 44 acre-feet and a normal storage level of 26 acre-feet, covering a surface area of 4 acres.
Despite not being state regulated, Ellison Lake has a high hazard potential and is classified as having a moderate risk level. The dam features an uncontrolled spillway and has a history of regular inspections, with the last one conducted in January 2019. While the condition assessment is not rated, the risk management measures and emergency action plan status are not specified in the available data. Overall, Ellison Lake presents an intriguing case study for water resource and climate enthusiasts due to its unique characteristics and risk profile.
Dam Length |
180 |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
4 |
Hydraulic Height |
16 |
Nid Storage |
44 |
Structural Height |
20 |
Outlet Gates |
None |
Hazard Potential |
High |
Nid Height |
20 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Cane Creek Near Howell
|
0cfs |
Duck River Near Shelbyville
|
339cfs |
Elk River Above Fayetteville
|
1690cfs |
Duck River At Shelbyville
|
289cfs |
Wartrace Creek Below County Road At Wartrace
|
14cfs |
Fall Creek Near Deason
|
0cfs |
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.
Ellison Lake