Fern Lake Reservoir Report
Nearby: Sunset Springbrook
Last Updated: December 8, 2025
Located in Madison, Tennessee, Fern Lake is a private reservoir regulated by the Tennessee Safe Dams Program.
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Summary
The dam, completed in 1969, is primarily used for recreation purposes and has a structural height of 22 feet with a hydraulic height of 17 feet. With a normal storage capacity of 65 acre-feet and a maximum storage of 115 acre-feet, the lake covers a surface area of 9.5 acres and has a drainage area of 0.97 square miles.
Despite its low hazard potential and satisfactory condition assessment, Fern Lake poses a moderate risk, with a risk assessment rating of 3. The dam features an uncontrolled spillway type and has no outlet gates. The last inspection conducted on October 17, 2019, deemed the dam to be in good condition. While the lake offers recreational opportunities, its risk management measures and emergency preparedness plans are not specified in the available data.
Water resource and climate enthusiasts may find Fern Lake to be an intriguing case study in dam regulation and risk assessment. Situated in a scenic location within the Nashville District, this private reservoir serves as a vital water resource for the surrounding area. As climate change continues to impact water infrastructure, understanding the management and maintenance of dams like Fern Lake becomes increasingly important for ensuring the safety and sustainability of our water resources.
Year Completed |
1969 |
Dam Length |
600 |
River Or Stream |
SPRING CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
9.5 |
Hydraulic Height |
17 |
Drainage Area |
0.97 |
Nid Storage |
115 |
Structural Height |
22 |
Outlet Gates |
None |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Nid Height |
22 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
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.
Fern Lake