Clifftops, located in Marion, Tennessee, is a privately owned dam that spans the Falls Branch river.
Wind
Humidity
Built in 1977, this Earth-type dam stands at a structural height of 24 feet with a hydraulic height of 18 feet. With a storage capacity of 992 acre-feet, Clifftops serves multiple purposes including recreation and other activities. The dam covers a surface area of 77 acres and has a drainage area of 1.7 square miles.
Managed by the Tennessee Safe Dams Program, Clifftops is regulated, permitted, inspected, and enforced by the state, ensuring its safety and compliance with regulations. Despite its high hazard potential, the dam's condition assessment in December 2020 reported it as satisfactory. The risk assessment for Clifftops is moderate, indicating the need for ongoing monitoring and risk management measures to prevent any potential issues.
For water resource and climate enthusiasts, Clifftops offers a fascinating example of dam infrastructure in Tennessee. Its location in Martin Springs, alongside the Falls Branch river, provides an opportunity for recreational activities while highlighting the importance of proper dam management to mitigate risks and ensure public safety. The dam's history, design, and purpose all contribute to the broader conversation on water resource management and environmental stewardship in the region.
Year Completed |
1977 |
Dam Length |
750 |
River Or Stream |
FALLS BRANCH |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
77 |
Hydraulic Height |
18 |
Drainage Area |
1.7 |
Nid Storage |
992 |
Structural Height |
24 |
Outlet Gates |
None |
Hazard Potential |
High |
Nid Height |
24 |
| Location | Reservations | Toilets |
|---|---|---|
Caver's Paradise
|
||
Father Adamz
|
||
Foster Falls
|