Dobson #1 Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Dobson #1 is a privately owned earth dam located in Marion, Tennessee, with a primary purpose of recreation.


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Summary

Completed in 2006, this dam stands at a hydraulic height of 35 feet and a structural height of 38 feet, with a length of 300 feet. It has a storage capacity of 137 acre-feet and a normal storage capacity of 112 acre-feet, covering a surface area of 8 acres.

Although classified as having a low hazard potential, Dobson #1 is considered to have a moderate risk level. The dam is uncontrolled, with no spillway width specified. It has not been rated for condition assessment, and the last inspection was conducted in January 2019, with an inspection frequency of 5 years. While the dam does not fall under state regulation or jurisdiction, it is monitored by the Tennessee primary source agency.

For water resource and climate enthusiasts, Dobson #1 represents a recreational structure in the Tennessee landscape, offering opportunities for outdoor activities in a picturesque setting. The dam's construction and storage capacity provide insight into the region's water management practices and the potential impact of climate change on local water resources. Continued monitoring and maintenance of Dobson #1 are essential to ensure the safety and longevity of this important infrastructure.

Year Completed

2006

Dam Length

300

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

8

Hydraulic Height

35

Nid Storage

137

Structural Height

38

Hazard Potential

Low

Nid Height

38
       
Seasonal Comparison

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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.