Ocoee No. 3 Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

The Ocoee No.


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Summary

3 Dam, also known as Ocoee No.3 Lake, is a captivating structure located in Polk, Tennessee, along the Ocoee River. Owned and operated by the Tennessee Valley Authority (TVA), this concrete gravity dam stands tall at 83 feet, with a structural height of 110 feet. Completed in 1942, it serves the primary purpose of flood risk reduction while also contributing to hydroelectric power generation and recreational activities in the area.

With a maximum storage capacity of 7,932 acre-feet and a normal storage of 3,966 acre-feet, the Ocoee No. 3 Dam covers a surface area of 600 acres and has a drainage area of 492 square miles. The dam boasts a controlled spillway with a width of 260 feet and Tainter outlet gates for efficient water release. Despite its high hazard potential, the dam's risk assessment is ranked as very high, highlighting the importance of regular inspections and emergency preparedness measures in place by the TVA.

Overall, the Ocoee No. 3 Dam is not only a key infrastructure for flood control and water resource management but also plays a significant role in providing renewable energy and recreational opportunities for the surrounding community. As a symbol of resilience and innovation, this concrete marvel stands as a testament to the TVA's commitment to environmental stewardship and public safety in the face of changing climate conditions.

Year Completed

1942

Dam Length

612

Dam Height

83

River Or Stream

OCOEE RIVER

Primary Dam Type

Concrete

Surface Area

600

Hydraulic Height

78

Drainage Area

492

Nid Storage

7932

Structural Height

110

Outlet Gates

Tainter (radial)

Hazard Potential

High

Foundations

Rock

Nid Height

110
       
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.