Burgess Falls Reservoir Report
Nearby: Curtis Lake Birdwell
Last Updated: December 13, 2025
Burgess Falls, located in Putnam, Tennessee, is a captivating destination for water resource and climate enthusiasts.
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Summary
This state-owned dam on Falling Water River serves primarily for recreation, offering visitors a chance to marvel at its impressive hydraulic height of 26.6 feet and structural height of 39.6 feet. Completed in 1928, the concrete dam stands at a length of 346 feet and has a storage capacity of 3382 acre-feet, making it a significant structure in the region.
With a hazard potential rated as significant and a condition assessment deemed satisfactory, Burgess Falls dam is regularly inspected by the Tennessee Safe Dams Program to ensure its safety and regulatory compliance. The dam's moderate risk level (3) underscores the importance of ongoing risk management measures. Although it lacks certain features like outlet gates and spillway width, Burgess Falls remains a popular spot for outdoor enthusiasts seeking a unique blend of natural beauty and man-made engineering.
Overall, Burgess Falls serves as a picturesque example of how water resources can be harnessed for recreational purposes while also highlighting the need for careful monitoring and maintenance to mitigate potential risks. Its location in the Nashville District and proximity to Williams Crossing make it a must-visit destination for those interested in both the natural and engineered aspects of our environment.
Year Completed |
1928 |
Dam Length |
346 |
River Or Stream |
FALLING WATER RIVER |
Primary Dam Type |
Concrete |
Surface Area |
89 |
Hydraulic Height |
26.6 |
Drainage Area |
125 |
Nid Storage |
3382 |
Structural Height |
39.6 |
Outlet Gates |
None |
Hazard Potential |
Significant |
Nid Height |
40 |
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.
Burgess Falls