Tellico Dam - Emergency Spillway (Saddle Dam No. 1) Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Tellico Dam - Emergency Spillway, also known as Saddle Dam No.


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Summary

1, is a vital structure located in Loudon, Tennessee, along the Little Tennessee River. Built in 1979 by the Tennessee Valley Authority, this concrete dam serves the primary purpose of flood risk reduction, supporting navigation, recreation, and water supply in the region. With a dam height of 11 feet and a hydraulic height of 24 feet, it plays a crucial role in managing water levels and ensuring the safety of surrounding areas.

Managed and funded by the Tennessee Valley Authority, Tellico Dam features an uncontrolled spillway with a width of 2000 feet to release excess water during emergencies. Despite its high hazard potential, the dam's condition assessment is currently not available, highlighting the importance of regular inspections and risk management measures. Its association with two other structures underscores its significance in the overall water resource management strategy of the region.

While not regulated by the state, Tellico Dam - Emergency Spillway remains a key asset in the flood control infrastructure of Tennessee. With its moderate risk assessment and proximity to the Congressional District 02, it stands as a testament to the engineering expertise of TVA and the critical role of dams in safeguarding communities against water-related disasters. For water resource and climate enthusiasts, Tellico Dam represents a blend of technological innovation, environmental stewardship, and public safety in the face of changing climatic conditions.

Year Completed

1979

Dam Length

2160

Dam Height

11

River Or Stream

LITTLE TENNESSEE RIVER

Primary Dam Type

Concrete

Hydraulic Height

24

Structural Height

24

Outlet Gates

Uncontrolled

Hazard Potential

High

Foundations

Rock, Soil

Nid Height

24
       
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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