Douglas Dam - Saddle Dam No. 4 Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 5, 2025
Douglas Dam - Saddle Dam No.
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Summary
4, also known as Douglas Lake, is a federal-owned structure located in Sevier, Tennessee, along the French Broad River. Completed in 1943 by the Tennessee Valley Authority (TVA), this earth dam stands at a height of 32 feet and serves primarily for flood risk reduction. With a hazard potential rated as high and a risk assessment of 2, it is crucial for water resource and climate enthusiasts to understand its significance in managing the water levels and potential risks in the region.
Owned, funded, designed, and regulated by the TVA, Douglas Dam - Saddle Dam No. 4 is part of a larger system that includes 11 associated structures. While it does not have a spillway, outlet gates, or locks, it plays a vital role in flood control, hydroelectric power generation, navigation, recreation, and water supply. With a high hazard potential and risk assessment, efforts to ensure its safety and effectiveness in managing water resources are essential for the surrounding communities and ecosystems.
As a key component in the Tennessee Valley Authority's operations, Douglas Dam - Saddle Dam No. 4 requires regular inspections and emergency preparedness measures. Despite the lack of specific data on its condition assessment, the dam's importance in mitigating flood risks and providing various water-related benefits underscores the need for continued monitoring and management by relevant authorities. For enthusiasts interested in water resources and climate dynamics, understanding the role and impact of structures like Douglas Dam is crucial in promoting resilience and sustainability in the face of changing environmental conditions.
Year Completed |
1943 |
Dam Length |
65 |
Dam Height |
22 |
River Or Stream |
FRENCH BROAD RIVER |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Hydraulic Height |
10 |
Structural Height |
32 |
Outlet Gates |
None |
Hazard Potential |
High |
Foundations |
Soil |
Nid Height |
32 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Little Pigeon River At Sevierville
|
226cfs |
Pigeon River At Newport
|
1250cfs |
French Broad River Near Newport
|
1520cfs |
Little River Above Townsend
|
211cfs |
Little River Near Maryville
|
270cfs |
Nolichucky River Near Lowland
|
1360cfs |
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.
Area Campgrounds
| Location | Reservations | Toilets |
|---|---|---|
Sevier County Park - Douglas Reservoir
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Douglas Dam Headwater
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Douglas Dam Tailwater
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Dandridge Municipal Park - Douglas Reservoir
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KOA Holiday
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Douglas Dam - Saddle Dam No. 4
Sevier County