Thomas Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Thomas is a private dam located in Marion, Tennessee, with a primary purpose of flood risk reduction.


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Summary

Constructed in 2002, this Earth-type dam stands at a structural height of 44 feet and has a hydraulic height of 41 feet. With a storage capacity of 217 acre-feet and a surface area of 16.1 acres, Thomas plays a crucial role in managing water resources in the area.

Managed by the Tennessee Safe Dams Program, Thomas is regulated, permitted, inspected, and enforced by the state. The dam has a high hazard potential but is currently in satisfactory condition, as assessed during the last inspection in December 2020. Despite its moderate risk assessment, Thomas provides vital flood protection for the surrounding area, effectively reducing the impact of potential disasters on the local community.

Located on the TRIBWILDCAT BRANCH river, Thomas is under the jurisdiction of the Nashville District and falls under the representation of Rep. Scott DesJarlais. With no associated structures and no federal agency involvement, Thomas remains a privately owned and operated structure dedicated to flood risk reduction. As water resource and climate enthusiasts, understanding the importance of dams like Thomas in ensuring water safety and flood control is crucial for sustainable water management practices.

Year Completed

2002

Dam Length

1126

River Or Stream

TRIBWILDCAT BRANCH

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

16.1

Hydraulic Height

41

Drainage Area

0.16

Nid Storage

217

Structural Height

44

Outlet Gates

None

Hazard Potential

High

Nid Height

44
       
Seasonal Comparison

Weather Forecast

Dam Data Reference

Condition Assessment

Satisfactory
No 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

High
Dams 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.
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