Solutia #8 Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 12, 2025

Solutia #8 is a privately owned dam located in Maury, Tennessee, along Helms Branch.


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Summary

This earth dam was completed in 1961 and stands at a hydraulic height of 19 feet and a structural height of 25 feet, with a length of 1000 feet. It has a storage capacity of 518 acre-feet, with a normal storage of 200 acre-feet and a surface area of 50 acres. The dam is regulated by the Tennessee Safe Dams Program and has state permitting, inspection, and enforcement measures in place.

Despite being classified as having a low hazard potential and being in satisfactory condition as of the last assessment in 2019, Solutia #8 poses a moderate risk due to its location and design. It has an uncontrolled spillway and no outlet gates, with no associated structures or locks. The dam has an inspection frequency of 3 years, and emergency action plans are not mentioned in the available data. The risk management measures and inundation maps for the dam are also not provided, leaving room for further assessment and preparedness.

Overall, Solutia #8 presents an interesting case study for water resource and climate enthusiasts, showcasing the complexities and considerations involved in managing dams for safety and environmental impact. With its historical significance and ongoing regulatory oversight, this dam serves as a reminder of the importance of monitoring and maintaining critical infrastructure to ensure the well-being of surrounding communities and ecosystems. Further analysis and updates on the risk assessment and management of Solutia #8 could provide valuable insights into the intersection of water resources, climate resilience, and infrastructure management.

Year Completed

1961

Dam Length

1000

River Or Stream

HELMS BRANCH

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

50

Hydraulic Height

19

Drainage Area

0.28

Nid Storage

518

Structural Height

25

Outlet Gates

None

Hazard Potential

Low

Nid Height

25
       
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.