Burnett Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 13, 2025

Burnett, located in Morgan, Tennessee, is a privately owned earth dam constructed in 1969 on Alexander Creek.


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Summary

With a hydraulic height of 16.3 feet and a structural height of 19.8 feet, Burnett stands at 20 feet tall and spans 330 feet in length. The dam has a storage capacity of 94 acre-feet, with a normal storage level of 78 acre-feet and a surface area of 11.9 acres, serving the purpose of water resource management in the region.

Despite its low hazard potential, Burnett has a moderate risk assessment rating of 3, indicating a need for caution and proactive risk management measures. The dam has not been rated for condition assessment and lacks emergency action plans and inundation maps. However, regular inspections are conducted every 5 years to ensure its structural integrity and safety. With no federal oversight or funding, Burnett remains under private ownership and management, highlighting the importance of local stewardship in maintaining water infrastructure in the face of changing climate conditions.

For water resource and climate enthusiasts, Burnett offers a fascinating case study in the intersection of infrastructure, risk management, and environmental stewardship. Its location in a region prone to climate variability underscores the importance of proactive measures to ensure the safety and resilience of water infrastructure. By understanding the unique characteristics and challenges of dams like Burnett, enthusiasts can contribute to the development of sustainable water resource management practices that are crucial in adapting to a changing climate and ensuring the long-term availability of water for communities and ecosystems alike.

Year Completed

1969

Dam Length

330

River Or Stream

ALEXANDER CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

11.9

Hydraulic Height

16.3

Drainage Area

0.34

Nid Storage

94

Structural Height

19.8

Outlet Gates

None

Hazard Potential

Low

Nid Height

20
       
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.