Oostanaula Creek Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Oostanaula Creek Dam, also known as Saulpaw Mill Dam, is a historic gravity dam located in Calhoun, Tennessee, along the Oostanaula Creek.


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Summary

Built in 1869 by the Tennessee Valley Authority (TVA), this federal-owned structure stands at 18 feet tall with a length of 60 feet, providing a storage capacity of 50 acre-feet. Despite its age, the dam has a low hazard potential and is currently not regulated by the state, with inspections conducted by the TVA.

The dam serves as a vital component in managing water resources and mitigating flood risks in the region. With a primary purpose not specified, the Oostanaula Creek Dam has stood the test of time, showcasing its sturdy masonry construction. The dam's historical significance, coupled with its strategic location and design, highlights its importance in the local water infrastructure and its contribution to the environmental sustainability of the area.

Enthusiasts of water resources and climate will appreciate the unique features of the Oostanaula Creek Dam, including its gravity design and federal ownership. As a key structure in the TVA network, this dam plays a crucial role in water management and flood control along the Oostanaula Creek. With a rich history dating back to the 19th century, the dam stands as a testament to engineering excellence and the importance of effective water resource management in the face of changing climate patterns.

Year Completed

1869

Dam Length

60

Dam Height

18

River Or Stream

OOSTANAULA CREEK - OFFSTREAM

Primary Dam Type

Gravity

Nid Storage

50

Hazard Potential

Low

Nid Height

18
       
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.