Nickajack Dam, located in Marion, Tennessee, along the Tennessee River, is a marvel of engineering that serves multiple essential purposes.
Wind
Humidity
Built in 1967 by the Tennessee Valley Authority (TVA), this concrete dam stands at a height of 81 feet and has a hydraulic height of 74 feet. With a storage capacity of 251,600 acre-feet and a maximum discharge of 501,900 cubic feet per second, Nickajack Dam plays a crucial role in hydroelectric power generation, navigation, recreation, and water supply in the region.
The dam's spillway, controlled by a 400-foot wide structure, ensures the safe release of excess water during high-flow periods. Additionally, Nickajack Dam features a single lock with dimensions of 600 feet in length and 110 feet in width, facilitating the passage of vessels through the waterway. Despite its high hazard potential, the dam is regularly inspected by the TVA to ensure its structural integrity and safety.
Nickajack Dam's strategic location in the Tennessee River watershed, combined with its significant storage capacity and multiple functions, underscores its importance in water resource management and climate resilience efforts. As a key component of the TVA's infrastructure, this dam continues to play a vital role in meeting the region's energy needs, supporting navigation activities, providing recreational opportunities, and safeguarding water supplies for local communities.
Years Modified |
1992 - Hydraulic, 1992 - Other |
Year Completed |
1967 |
Dam Length |
3767 |
Dam Height |
81 |
River Or Stream |
TENNESSEE RIVER |
Primary Dam Type |
Concrete |
Surface Area |
10200 |
Length Of Locks |
600 |
Hydraulic Height |
74 |
Drainage Area |
21870 |
Nid Storage |
251600 |
Structural Height |
81 |
Outlet Gates |
Tainter (radial) |
Hazard Potential |
High |
Foundations |
Rock, Soil |
Nid Height |
81 |