Tellico Dam - Saddle Dam No. 3 Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 15, 2025

Tellico Dam - Saddle Dam No.


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Summary

3, also known as Tellico Lake, is a federal-owned structure located in Loudon, Tennessee. Built in 1979 by the Tennessee Valley Authority (TVA), this earth dam stands at a height of 32 feet and serves primarily for flood risk reduction. The dam, designed by TVA, spans 350 feet and is situated along the Little Tennessee River, contributing to the area's water management and recreational activities.

With a hazard potential rated as high, Tellico Dam - Saddle Dam No. 3 underwent structural modifications in 2015 to ensure its continued safety and efficacy. Despite its critical function in flood risk reduction, the dam does not have a spillway and lacks outlet gates. The surrounding area, including the city of Lenoir City, benefits from the dam's presence in managing water levels and minimizing potential risks during extreme weather events.

As climate change impacts water resources and the environment, the maintenance and monitoring of structures like Tellico Dam - Saddle Dam No. 3 are crucial. With its historical significance and ongoing role in flood risk reduction, this federal-owned dam underscores the importance of sustainable water management practices and the need for continued investment in infrastructure to adapt to changing climate patterns.

Years Modified

2015 - Structural

Year Completed

1979

Dam Length

350

Dam Height

17

River Or Stream

LITTLE TENNESSEE RIVER

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Hydraulic Height

20

Structural Height

32

Outlet Gates

None

Hazard Potential

High

Foundations

Rock, Soil

Nid Height

32
       
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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