Johnson Creek #7 Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 6, 2025

Johnson Creek #7, also known as Johnson Creek Dam 7, is a privately owned structure located in Madison, Tennessee.


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Summary

Built in 1960 by the USDA NRCS, this earth dam on Lackey Creek serves primarily for flood risk reduction. Standing at a structural height of 40.5 feet and a hydraulic height of 20 feet, it has a storage capacity of 2,887 acre-feet and covers a surface area of 60 acres.

Managed by the Tennessee Safe Dams Program, Johnson Creek #7 is regulated, permitted, inspected, and enforced by the state. With a low hazard potential and a satisfactory condition assessment, the dam poses a moderate risk level. The dam's spillway type is uncontrolled, and it has no outlet gates. The last inspection in January 2019 found the structure to be in good condition, meeting safety guidelines and minimizing the risk of potential hazards.

Located within the Memphis District of the USACE, Johnson Creek #7 plays a crucial role in mitigating flood risks in the area and protecting the surrounding communities. For water resource and climate enthusiasts, this dam serves as a testament to the importance of proper dam maintenance and regulation in ensuring the safety and resilience of our water infrastructure.

Year Completed

1960

Dam Length

1191

River Or Stream

LACKEY CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

60

Hydraulic Height

20

Drainage Area

4.97

Nid Storage

2887

Structural Height

40.5

Outlet Gates

None

Hazard Potential

Low

Foundations

Soil

Nid Height

41
       
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.