Located in Haletown, Tennessee, the Raccoon Mountain Dam, also known as Raccoon Mountain Reservoir, is a marvel of engineering designed by the Tennessee Valley Authority (TVA).
Wind
Humidity
Completed in 1978, this rockfill dam stands at a height of 230 feet and serves as a vital hydroelectric facility on the Tennessee River's John McNabb Branch. With a storage capacity of 36,340 acre-feet and a normal storage of 2,200 acre-feet, the dam plays a crucial role in providing water resources and clean energy for the region.
The Raccoon Mountain Dam is owned and operated by the Tennessee Valley Authority, with primary purposes including hydroelectric power generation. The dam's structure, consisting of stone core and rock foundations, spans 8,500 feet in length and covers a surface area of 528 acres. Despite its high hazard potential, the dam's condition assessment is currently not available, raising concerns about its risk management measures. The absence of a spillway and the use of slide gates for outlet control further highlight the importance of monitoring and maintaining this key water resource infrastructure.
As a significant feature in Marion County, Tennessee, the Raccoon Mountain Dam stands as a testament to human ingenuity and the intersection of water resource management and climate considerations. With its strategic location and vital role in providing clean energy and water storage, this dam serves as a vital lifeline for the region's communities and ecosystems. As climate change impacts continue to pose challenges to water resources, ensuring the safety and resilience of structures like the Raccoon Mountain Dam is essential for sustainable development and environmental stewardship in the face of evolving climate conditions.
Year Completed |
1978 |
Dam Length |
8500 |
Dam Height |
230 |
River Or Stream |
TENNESSEE RIVER - JOHN MCNABB BRANCH |
Primary Dam Type |
Rockfill |
Surface Area |
528 |
Hydraulic Height |
224 |
Drainage Area |
1.4 |
Nid Storage |
36340 |
Structural Height |
230 |
Outlet Gates |
Slide (sluice gate) |
Hazard Potential |
High |
Foundations |
Rock, Soil |
Nid Height |
230 |