Whippoorwill Lake Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 13, 2025

Whippoorwill Lake, located in Maury, Tennessee, is a private earth dam constructed in 1983 with a primary purpose that remains unspecified.


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Summary

The dam stands at a structural height of 39.8 feet, with a hydraulic height of 21.2 feet and a total length of 841 feet. With a storage capacity of 800 acre-feet and a surface area of 30 acres, Whippoorwill Lake plays a crucial role in regulating water resources in the area.

Managed by the Tennessee Safe Dams Program, Whippoorwill Lake is subject to regular inspections, with the latest assessment in January 2021 rating its condition as satisfactory. Despite its high hazard potential, the dam is considered to have a moderate risk level (3) and is equipped with an uncontrolled spillway system. This critical infrastructure not only contributes to water resource management but also serves as a valuable asset in mitigating climate-related risks such as flooding and water scarcity in the region.

Enthusiasts of water resources and climate resilience will find Whippoorwill Lake to be a fascinating example of human-made infrastructure working in harmony with nature. As an integral part of the state's regulatory system, this dam embodies the importance of proactive risk management and emergency preparedness in ensuring the safety and sustainability of water resources in Tennessee. With its strategic location and significant storage capacity, Whippoorwill Lake stands as a testament to the innovation and dedication required to address the challenges posed by a changing climate.

Year Completed

1983

Dam Length

841

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

30

Hydraulic Height

21.2

Drainage Area

1.15

Nid Storage

800

Structural Height

39.8

Outlet Gates

None

Hazard Potential

High

Nid Height

40
       
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.