Tellico Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Tellico dam, located in Tellico Plains, Tennessee, is a privately owned structure built in 1914 on Quarry Creek.


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Summary

Managed by the Tennessee Safe Dams Program, this earth dam stands at a hydraulic height of 43.2 feet and a structural height of 62.2 feet, with a total length of 206 feet. It has a maximum storage capacity of 942 acre-feet and serves a drainage area of 3.18 square miles.

With a high hazard potential and a satisfactory condition assessment as of December 2020, Tellico dam poses a moderate risk, according to recent evaluations. Despite its uncontrolled spillway and lack of outlet gates, the dam meets state regulatory standards and undergoes regular inspections. The dam's emergency action plan status and risk management measures are currently unspecified, highlighting areas for potential improvement and increased resilience in the face of climate change and water resource challenges.

Overall, Tellico dam plays a crucial role in water management for the region, balancing the need for flood control and water supply while facing ongoing risks and uncertainties. Its historical significance and operational importance underscore the importance of continued monitoring and maintenance to ensure the safety and sustainability of this essential infrastructure in the face of evolving climate conditions.

Year Completed

1914

Dam Length

206

River Or Stream

QUARRY CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

18

Hydraulic Height

43.2

Drainage Area

3.18

Nid Storage

942

Structural Height

62.2

Outlet Gates

None

Hazard Potential

High

Nid Height

62
       
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.