Bruce Creek Reservoir Report
Nearby: Grass Creek Turner
Last Updated: December 12, 2025
Bruce Creek, a state-regulated dam located in Obion, Tennessee, stands as a critical component in managing the water resources of the region.
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Summary
Built in 1987, this earth dam serves the primary purpose of flood control on the Obion River, offering a storage capacity of 252 acre-feet. With a structural height of 19 feet and a length of 850 feet, Bruce Creek plays a pivotal role in maintaining the safety and sustainability of the surrounding environment.
Managed by the Tennessee Safe Dams Program, Bruce Creek has a low hazard potential and is deemed to be in satisfactory condition as of the last inspection in September 2020. Despite the moderate risk assessment score of 3, the dam meets regulatory guidelines and undergoes regular inspections, enforcement, and permitting to ensure its continued functionality. With its uncontrolled spillway and absence of outlet gates, Bruce Creek remains a vital component in the water resource infrastructure of the area, demonstrating the importance of effective dam management in mitigating potential risks.
For water resource and climate enthusiasts, Bruce Creek serves as a captivating example of the intricate balance between human infrastructure and environmental stewardship. As part of the larger network managed by the Tennessee government, this dam underscores the importance of proactive risk management and regulatory oversight to safeguard water resources and protect surrounding communities from potential hazards. With its strategic location on the Obion River and its critical role in flood control, Bruce Creek stands as a testament to the ongoing efforts to balance human needs with the preservation of natural ecosystems in the face of changing climate dynamics.
Year Completed |
1987 |
Dam Length |
850 |
River Or Stream |
OBION RIVER |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Drainage Area |
0.47 |
Nid Storage |
252 |
Structural Height |
19 |
Outlet Gates |
None |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Nid Height |
19 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
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.
Bruce Creek