Douglas Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Douglas Dam, located on the French Broad River in Tennessee, is a concrete gravity dam completed in 1943 by the Tennessee Valley Authority (TVA).


°F

°F

mph

Wind

%

Humidity

Summary

With a height of 141 feet and a hydraulic height of 147 feet, the dam serves multiple purposes including flood risk reduction, hydroelectric power generation, navigation, recreation, and water supply. The reservoir created by the dam, known as Douglas Lake, has a normal storage capacity of 1,223,511 acre-feet and covers an impressive surface area of 28,070 acres.

The dam boasts a controlled spillway with a width of 440 feet and Tainter radial outlet gates. Despite its high hazard potential, the dam is operated and maintained by the TVA to ensure the safety of the surrounding communities. The associated structures with Douglas Dam include 11 other structures, contributing to its overall function and efficiency. With a risk assessment rating of "Very High (1)", the TVA continuously monitors and manages the risks associated with the dam to safeguard the downstream areas and enhance its resilience to changing climate conditions.

Douglas Dam stands as a vital infrastructure for the region, not only providing flood protection and water storage but also offering opportunities for recreation and power generation. Its rich history and engineering marvel continue to attract water resource and climate enthusiasts who appreciate the importance of sustainable water management in the face of evolving environmental challenges.

Year Completed

1943

Dam Length

1705

Dam Height

141

River Or Stream

FRENCH BROAD RIVER

Primary Dam Type

Concrete

Surface Area

28070

Hydraulic Height

147

Drainage Area

4541

Nid Storage

1626060

Structural Height

202

Outlet Gates

Tainter (radial)

Hazard Potential

High

Foundations

Rock

Nid Height

202
       
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.