Douglas Dam - Saddle Dam No. 5 Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 5, 2025
Douglas Dam - Saddle Dam No.
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Summary
5, located in Sevier County, Tennessee, along the French Broad River, is a vital component of the Tennessee Valley Authority's flood risk reduction infrastructure. Built in 1943, this earth dam stands at a height of 32 feet and spans 228 feet in length. While primarily designed for flood risk reduction, it also serves multiple purposes including hydroelectric power generation, navigation, recreation, and water supply for the region.
Managed by the Tennessee Valley Authority, Douglas Dam - Saddle Dam No. 5 is part of a network of 11 associated structures that contribute to the overall water resource management in the area. With a high hazard potential, this dam plays a crucial role in mitigating flood risks and ensuring the safety of nearby communities. Despite its importance, the condition assessment of the dam is currently not available, highlighting the need for ongoing monitoring and maintenance to uphold its structural integrity.
As a key piece of infrastructure in the region, Douglas Dam - Saddle Dam No. 5 underscores the importance of proactive risk management and emergency preparedness. With its strategic location in Sevier County, Tennessee, this dam serves as a critical asset for water resource and climate enthusiasts, showcasing the intricate balance between water management, environmental conservation, and community safety in the face of changing weather patterns and increasing water-related challenges.
Year Completed |
1943 |
Dam Length |
228 |
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.
Douglas Dam - Saddle Dam No. 5