Bethea Reservoir Report
Nearby: Greenbrier Spectrum
Last Updated: December 10, 2025
Bethea, located in Robertson, Tennessee, is a privately owned earth dam built in 1978 for recreational purposes along the TribSulphur Fork river.
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Summary
The dam stands at a hydraulic height of 28.2 feet and a structural height of 31.2 feet, with a length of 698 feet and a storage capacity of 121 acre-feet. Despite its low hazard potential and moderate risk assessment, Bethea has not been rated for its condition assessment, and its last inspection took place in March 2016.
With a normal storage capacity of 94 acre-feet and a surface area of 8.3 acres, Bethea serves as a multipurpose structure for fire protection, stock, small fish ponds, and recreation. While the dam's spillway type is uncontrolled and it has no outlet gates, its maintenance and management are crucial for ensuring the safety and sustainability of its surrounding environment. As a water resource and climate enthusiast, understanding the intricacies of Bethea's design, purpose, and risk assessment can provide valuable insights into how human-made structures interact with natural water systems.
As a water resource enthusiast, Bethea's location, design, and operational data offer a fascinating glimpse into the intersection of human infrastructure and environmental impact. Its role in water management and recreation within the Nashville District showcases the importance of responsible dam ownership and maintenance in safeguarding both public safety and ecological balance. For those passionate about water resources and climate resilience, Bethea represents a case study in the delicate balance between human needs and environmental stewardship in the face of changing climate patterns and increasing water demands.
Year Completed |
1978 |
Dam Length |
698 |
River Or Stream |
TRIBSULPHUR FORK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
8.3 |
Hydraulic Height |
28.2 |
Drainage Area |
0.26 |
Nid Storage |
121 |
Structural Height |
31.2 |
Outlet Gates |
None |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Nid Height |
31 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Dry Creek Near Edenwold
|
1cfs |
Whites Creek Near Bordeaux
|
15cfs |
Sycamore Creek Near Ashland City
|
30cfs |
Red River At Port Royal
|
224cfs |
Cumberland River At Woodland St At Nashville
|
7180cfs |
Cumberland River At Nashville
|
13300cfs |
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.
Bethea