Mckinnon Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 13, 2025

Mckinnon, located in Marshall County, Tennessee, is a privately owned Earth dam constructed in 1973 by the USDA NRCS for the primary purpose of creating a Fish and Wildlife Pond.


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Summary

With a hydraulic height of 19 feet and a structural height of 25 feet, the dam stands along the East Fork Bradshaw Creek. It has a storage capacity of 55 acre-feet, with a normal storage level of 30 acre-feet, covering a surface area of 4 acres and draining a small 0.1 square mile watershed.

Despite being deemed as having a significant hazard potential, the dam's condition assessment is currently not rated, and its last inspection was conducted in September 2017. Although the dam is not state-regulated or permitted, it falls under the jurisdiction of the Tennessee state and is not subject to regular inspections, enforcement, or permitting. The spillway type for Mckinnon is listed as "Uncontrolled," and it has no outlet gates or associated locks.

For water resource and climate enthusiasts, Mckinnon presents an intriguing case study in dam management and risk assessment. With its moderate risk level and lack of formal emergency action plan, there is a need for continued monitoring and evaluation to ensure the safety and integrity of the structure. As a critical habitat for fish and wildlife, as well as a recreational area, Mckinnon serves as a reminder of the importance of sustainable water resource management practices in the face of changing climate conditions.

Year Completed

1973

Dam Length

263

River Or Stream

EAST FORK BRADSHAW CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

4

Hydraulic Height

19

Drainage Area

0.1

Nid Storage

55

Structural Height

25

Outlet Gates

None

Hazard Potential

Significant

Foundations

Rock, Soil

Nid Height

25
       
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.