D.O.E. Oak Ridge White Oak Dam Reservoir Report
Nearby: Melton Hill Dam Thompson Lake
Last Updated: December 13, 2025
D.O.E.
°F
°F
mph
Wind
%
Humidity
Summary
Oak Ridge White Oak Dam, located in Kingston, Tennessee, was completed in 1941 by the Department of Energy and serves as a vital structure on White Oak Creek. This earth dam stands at 25 feet in height and has a hydraulic height of 16 feet, with a length of 400 feet. The dam has a storage capacity of 300 acre-feet, with a normal storage level of 150 acre-feet. The spillway, with a width of 18 feet, is controlled to manage water discharge.
The dam has been assessed with a significant hazard potential and a very high risk assessment rating. While the condition assessment is not available, the dam is under the jurisdiction of the Department of Energy for operation, regulation, and inspection. The last inspection was conducted in September 2005, with an inspection frequency of 1. Despite the risk level, emergency action plans and inundation maps are not readily available, highlighting the need for further risk management measures and preparedness.
Overall, D.O.E. Oak Ridge White Oak Dam plays a crucial role in water resource management in the area, providing storage and flood control on White Oak Creek. With its historical significance and ongoing maintenance by the Department of Energy, the dam serves as a key infrastructure for the community. However, the high risk assessment underscores the importance of ensuring proper emergency preparedness and risk management to safeguard the surrounding area from potential hazards.
Year Completed |
1941 |
Dam Length |
400 |
River Or Stream |
WHITE OAK CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
25 |
Hydraulic Height |
16 |
Drainage Area |
6 |
Nid Storage |
300 |
Structural Height |
25 |
Hazard Potential |
Significant |
Foundations |
Rock |
Nid Height |
25 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Beaver Creek At Solway
|
80cfs |
Emory River At Oakdale
|
551cfs |
Obed River Near Lancing
|
430cfs |
Little River Near Alcoa
|
191cfs |
Bullrun Creek Near Halls Crossroads
|
30cfs |
Little River Near Maryville
|
176cfs |
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.
D.O.E. Oak Ridge White Oak Dam
Melton Hill Dam Boat Ramp