Tellico Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Tellico Dam, located in Loudon, Tennessee, along the Little Tennessee River, is a concrete dam completed in 1979 by the Tennessee Valley Authority (TVA).


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Summary

With a height of 95 feet and a hydraulic height of 96 feet, the dam serves the primary purpose of flood risk reduction, but also supports navigation, recreation, and water supply. The dam's reservoir, Tellico Lake, has a maximum storage capacity of 513,597 acre-feet and covers a surface area of 15,600 acres.

Despite its high hazard potential, Tellico Dam has undergone structural modifications in 2015 to ensure its continued safety and functionality. The dam features a controlled spillway with a width of 120 feet and is associated with three additional structures. The Tennessee Valley Authority is responsible for the dam's design, construction, regulation, inspection, and operation, making it a crucial asset in the region's water resource management and climate resilience efforts.

With its strategic location and multifaceted benefits, Tellico Dam is a vital component of the region's infrastructure. As a key flood risk reduction measure, the dam plays a critical role in protecting communities and supporting various water-related activities. Its continued maintenance and management by the Tennessee Valley Authority underscore the commitment to safeguarding water resources and enhancing climate resilience in the area.

Years Modified

2015 - Structural

Year Completed

1979

Dam Length

3238

Dam Height

95

River Or Stream

LITTLE TENNESSEE RIVER

Primary Dam Type

Concrete

Surface Area

15600

Hydraulic Height

96

Drainage Area

2627

Nid Storage

513597

Structural Height

129

Outlet Gates

Tainter (radial)

Hazard Potential

High

Foundations

Rock, Soil

Nid Height

129
       
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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Area Campgrounds