Melton Hill Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 13, 2025

Melton Hill Dam, located in Loudon, Tennessee, along the Clinch River, is a concrete gravity dam primarily owned and operated by the Tennessee Valley Authority (TVA).


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Summary

Completed in 1963, the dam stands at a height of 60 feet and has a hydraulic height of 69 feet, with a structural height of 103 feet. With a storage capacity of 150,708 acre-feet and a surface area of 5,690 acres, Melton Hill Dam serves multiple purposes including hydroelectric power generation, navigation, recreation, and water supply.

The dam features a controlled spillway with a width of 120 feet and a single lock with a length of 400 feet and a width of 75 feet. The risk assessment for Melton Hill Dam indicates a high hazard potential and very high risk, emphasizing the importance of regular inspections and emergency preparedness. The dam is under the jurisdiction of the TVA and is not regulated by the state, with inspections conducted every two years. Melton Hill Dam plays a crucial role in managing water resources and maintaining the ecological balance in the region, making it a key structure for water resource and climate enthusiasts to monitor and study.

Years Modified

1988 - Other

Year Completed

1963

Dam Length

1020

Dam Height

60

River Or Stream

CLINCH RIVER

Primary Dam Type

Concrete

Surface Area

5690

Length Of Locks

400

Hydraulic Height

69

Drainage Area

3343

Nid Storage

150708

Structural Height

103

Outlet Gates

Tainter (radial)

Hazard Potential

High

Foundations

Rock

Nid Height

103
       
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.
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