J J Madison Lake Reservoir Report
Nearby: Cedar Creek Porters Creek #17
Last Updated: December 13, 2025
J J Madison Lake, located in McNairy, Tennessee, is a privately owned dam regulated by the Tennessee Safe Dams Program.
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Summary
This Earth-type dam, completed in 1972, stands at a height of 41.5 feet and has a hydraulic height of 36.7 feet. With a storage capacity of 670 acre-feet, the lake covers a surface area of 34 acres and drains an area of 0.25 square miles through Lee Creek.
Despite its low hazard potential and satisfactory condition assessment, J J Madison Lake is subject to regular inspections every three years to ensure its safety and integrity. The dam features an uncontrolled spillway and has a moderate risk assessment rating of 3. Although no associated structures or locks are present, the dam serves as an important water resource for the surrounding area.
Water resource and climate enthusiasts will appreciate the vital role that J J Madison Lake plays in providing water storage and flood control for the community of Powells Chapel. With its regulated maintenance and satisfactory condition, the dam serves as a reliable asset in managing water resources in McNairy County, Tennessee.
Year Completed |
1972 |
Dam Length |
845 |
River Or Stream |
LEE CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
34 |
Hydraulic Height |
36.7 |
Drainage Area |
0.25 |
Nid Storage |
670 |
Structural Height |
41.5 |
Outlet Gates |
None |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Nid Height |
42 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Hatchie River Near Walnut
|
105cfs |
Hatchie River At Bolivar
|
577cfs |
Wolf River At Lagrange
|
170cfs |
Horse Creek Near Savannah
|
63cfs |
Middle Fork Forked Deer River Near Fairview
|
118cfs |
Wolf River At Rossville
|
336cfs |
Dam Data Reference
Condition Assessment
SatisfactoryNo 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
HighDams 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.
J J Madison Lake