Laurel Lake Reservoir Report
Nearby: Thomas Cooley's Rift
Last Updated: December 5, 2025
Laurel Lake, located in Marion, Tennessee, is a vital water resource managed by the local government for water supply purposes.
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Summary
This man-made reservoir on Laurel Branch was completed in 1975 and has a hydraulic height of 57.4 feet, with a structural height of 62 feet. The dam has a length of 477 feet and a storage capacity of 444 acre-feet. With a surface area of 28.7 acres and a drainage area of 1.75 square miles, Laurel Lake plays a significant role in water management in the region.
Maintained and regulated by the Tennessee Safe Dams Program, Laurel Lake has a satisfactory condition assessment as of the last inspection in April 2018. The dam's hazard potential is deemed significant, with a moderate risk level. While the spillway type is uncontrolled, the dam has no outlet gates, and there are no associated structures or locks. Despite its risk level, Laurel Lake remains a crucial water resource for the community, demonstrating effective management and enforcement practices to ensure its safety and functionality for water supply purposes.
Water resource and climate enthusiasts will find Laurel Lake a fascinating example of sustainable water management, showcasing the importance of proper regulation and inspection to mitigate potential risks. As a key player in the local water supply system, Laurel Lake serves as a model for responsible dam operation and maintenance, highlighting the essential role of infrastructure in securing water resources in the face of changing climate conditions. Its location, design, and history make Laurel Lake a compelling subject for further study and appreciation by those interested in water resource management and resilience in the face of climate challenges.
Year Completed |
1975 |
Dam Length |
477 |
River Or Stream |
LAUREL BRANCH |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
28.7 |
Hydraulic Height |
57.4 |
Drainage Area |
1.75 |
Nid Storage |
444 |
Structural Height |
62 |
Outlet Gates |
None |
Hazard Potential |
Significant |
Nid Height |
62 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Elk River Near Pelham
|
50cfs |
Bradley Creek Nr Prairie Plains
|
11cfs |
Sequatchie River Near Whitwell
|
294cfs |
Duck River Below Manchester
|
64cfs |
Lookout Creek Near New England
|
36cfs |
Collins River Near Mcminnville
|
594cfs |
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.
Area Campgrounds
| Location | Reservations | Toilets |
|---|---|---|
Caver's Paradise
|
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Father Adamz
|
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Foster Falls
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Laurel Lake