Watts Bar Dam - Kingston Backwater Dike Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 13, 2025
Located in Kingston, Tennessee, the Watts Bar Dam - Kingston Backwater Dike is a vital structure designed by the Tennessee Valley Authority to reduce flood risks along the Clinch River.
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Summary
This Federal-owned Earth dam stands at a height of 31 feet, with a hydraulic height of 20 feet and a structural height of 37 feet. Completed in 1942, the dike spans 3,500 feet and is primarily composed of stone core and rests on rock and soil foundations.
The Watts Bar Dam - Kingston Backwater Dike serves as a crucial flood risk reduction measure, reflecting the Tennessee Valley Authority's commitment to safeguarding the surrounding communities from potential water-related hazards. With a high hazard potential, this dike plays a key role in protecting the area from inundation and ensuring the safety of residents in Roane County. Despite its age, the dam continues to fulfill its purpose effectively, demonstrating the enduring resilience of its design and construction by TVA.
As water resource and climate enthusiasts explore the significance of infrastructure like the Watts Bar Dam - Kingston Backwater Dike, they gain insight into the complexities of managing water resources and mitigating climate-related risks. This structure exemplifies the ongoing efforts to balance human development with environmental protection, showcasing the innovation and foresight required to address the challenges posed by changing weather patterns and increasing water levels.
Year Completed |
1942 |
Dam Length |
3500 |
Dam Height |
31 |
River Or Stream |
CLINCH RIVER |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Hydraulic Height |
20 |
Structural Height |
37 |
Outlet Gates |
None |
Hazard Potential |
High |
Foundations |
Rock, Soil |
Nid Height |
37 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Emory River At Oakdale
|
551cfs |
Obed River Near Lancing
|
430cfs |
Daddys Creek Near Hebbertsburg
|
81cfs |
Clear Creek At Lilly Bridge Near Lancing
|
134cfs |
Beaver Creek At Solway
|
80cfs |
Sewee Creek Near Decatur
|
32cfs |
Dam Data Reference
Condition Assessment
SatisfactoryNo 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
HighDams 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.
Watts Bar Dam - Kingston Backwater Dike