Tellico Dam - Saddle Dam No. 2 Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Tellico Dam - Saddle Dam No.


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Summary

2, also known as Tellico Lake, is a Federal-owned structure in Loudon, Tennessee, managed by the Tennessee Valley Authority (TVA). Built in 1979, this earth-type dam stands at a height of 30 feet, with a structural height of 21 feet and a length of 470 feet. Its primary purpose is flood risk reduction, although it also serves navigation, recreation, and water supply needs in the region. The dam is situated on the Little Tennessee River and has a significant hazard potential rating, indicating the importance of its safety and maintenance.

Despite being classified as having a high hazard potential, Tellico Dam - Saddle Dam No. 2 has not had its condition assessed recently. The dam experienced structural modifications in 2015, highlighting ongoing efforts to ensure its safety and functionality. With a history of federal funding, design, construction, regulation, and inspection by the TVA, this dam plays a crucial role in managing water resources in the area. Its proximity to Lenoir City and its association with other structures further emphasize its importance in the region's water management infrastructure.

As water resource and climate enthusiasts, understanding the significance of Tellico Dam - Saddle Dam No. 2 provides insight into the complex network of dams and structures that help regulate water flow, mitigate floods, and support various water-related activities. With its location on the Little Tennessee River and its multiple purposes, this dam stands as a testament to the interconnectedness of water management, recreation, and environmental stewardship in Tennessee.

Years Modified

2015 - Structural

Year Completed

1979

Dam Length

470

Dam Height

30

River Or Stream

LITTLE TENNESSEE RIVER

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Hydraulic Height

9

Structural Height

21

Outlet Gates

None

Hazard Potential

High

Foundations

Rock, Soil

Nid Height

30
       
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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