Clarksville Lake Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 9, 2025

Clarksville Lake in Montgomery, Tennessee is a significant earth dam structure with a hydraulic height of 34.5 feet and a structural height of 40.6 feet.


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Summary

Completed in 1940, this dam serves the primary purpose of water resource management, providing a maximum storage capacity of 837 acre-feet and a normal storage of 552 acre-feet. With a surface area of 40 acres and a drainage area of 4.6 square miles, Clarksville Lake plays a crucial role in flood control and water supply for the surrounding area.

Managed by the Tennessee Safe Dams Program, Clarksville Lake has a significant hazard potential but is currently rated as having satisfactory condition. The dam features an uncontrolled spillway and no outlet gates, indicating a reliance on natural overflow mechanisms. Despite its age, Clarksville Lake undergoes regular inspections every two years to ensure its safety and structural integrity. With a moderate risk assessment of 3, the dam is closely monitored to implement appropriate risk management measures and safeguard against potential emergencies.

Located in Dotsonville along Bartee Branch, Clarksville Lake is a vital water resource for the region, supported by a local government ownership structure. With its historical significance and ongoing maintenance efforts, the dam serves as a key component in the environmental and water management strategy of Montgomery, Tennessee. Water resource and climate enthusiasts can appreciate the role of Clarksville Lake in balancing the needs of the community with the preservation of natural resources.

Year Completed

1940

Dam Length

505

River Or Stream

BARTEE BRANCH

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

40

Hydraulic Height

34.5

Drainage Area

4.6

Nid Storage

837

Structural Height

40.6

Outlet Gates

None

Hazard Potential

Significant

Nid Height

41
       
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.