Deerhead Lake Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Deerhead Lake, located in Sequatchie, Tennessee, is a privately-owned recreational lake that was completed in 1965.


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Summary

The dam, primarily used for recreation, is an earth dam with a hydraulic height of 27.2 feet and a structural height of 31 feet. With a storage capacity of 419 acre-feet and a surface area of 28 acres, Deerhead Lake provides a serene setting for water and climate enthusiasts to enjoy a variety of outdoor activities.

Managed by the Tennessee Safe Dams Program, Deerhead Lake has a low hazard potential and is currently in satisfactory condition as of the last inspection in November 2020. The lake is regulated, permitted, inspected, and enforced by the state of Tennessee, ensuring proper maintenance and safety measures are in place. While the spillway is uncontrolled, the risk assessment for Deerhead Lake is moderate, indicating that there are some potential risks that are being actively managed to maintain the safety of the dam and surrounding area.

Overall, Deerhead Lake is a picturesque destination for water resource and climate enthusiasts looking to enjoy recreational activities in a well-maintained and regulated environment. With its tranquil setting, ample storage capacity, and moderate risk assessment, Deerhead Lake provides a great opportunity for visitors to appreciate the beauty of nature while ensuring the safety and sustainability of the dam and surrounding area.

Year Completed

1965

Dam Length

730

River Or Stream

KELLY BRANCH

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

28

Hydraulic Height

27.2

Drainage Area

0.45

Nid Storage

419

Structural Height

31

Outlet Gates

None

Hazard Potential

Low

Nid Height

31
       
Seasonal Comparison

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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.