Douglas Dam - Saddle Dam No. 7 Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 5, 2025
Douglas Dam - Saddle Dam No.
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Summary
7, also known as Douglas Lake, is a significant federal-owned structure located in Sevier County, Tennessee. Built by the Tennessee Valley Authority (TVA) and completed in 1987, this earth-type dam stands at a height of 22 feet and serves primarily for flood risk reduction, with additional purposes including hydroelectric power generation, navigation, recreation, and water supply. Situated on the French Broad River, this dam is crucial for managing water resources in the region and protecting against potential flooding events.
Managed and operated by the TVA, Douglas Dam - Saddle Dam No. 7 is part of a network of 11 associated structures that play a vital role in water management and risk mitigation in the area. With a high hazard potential, this dam is subject to regular inspections and emergency preparedness measures to ensure the safety and reliability of its operations. While the dam does not have a spillway, it is equipped with outlet gates and other features to control water levels and discharge. The dam's location in Knoxville, Tennessee, under Congressional District 01, further underscores its importance in the region's water resource management and climate resilience efforts.
Overall, Douglas Dam - Saddle Dam No. 7 stands as a crucial infrastructure project with multiple benefits for the community, including flood protection, power generation, and recreational opportunities. As water resource and climate enthusiasts, understanding the significance of this dam in maintaining water supply, managing flood risks, and supporting various activities in the region is essential. With ongoing monitoring and risk management measures in place, Douglas Dam plays a key role in ensuring the safety and sustainability of water resources in Sevier County and beyond.
Year Completed |
1987 |
Dam Length |
20 |
Dam Height |
22 |
River Or Stream |
FRENCH BROAD RIVER |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Hydraulic Height |
3 |
Structural Height |
15 |
Outlet Gates |
None |
Hazard Potential |
High |
Foundations |
Soil |
Nid Height |
22 |
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. 7