Douglas Dam - Saddle Dam No. 8 Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Douglas Dam - Saddle Dam No.


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Summary

8, also known as Douglas Lake, is a federally-owned structure located in Sevier County, Tennessee along the French Broad River. Built in 1943 by the Tennessee Valley Authority (TVA) for flood risk reduction, this earth dam stands at a height of 22 feet with a structural height of 25 feet and a length of 125 feet. With a primary purpose of flood risk reduction, it also serves for hydroelectric power generation, navigation, recreation, and water supply.

Although not regulated by the state, Douglas Dam - Saddle Dam No. 8 has a high hazard potential due to its location and purpose. With a history of regular inspections by the TVA, this dam has been assessed as having a high risk level, prompting the need for risk management measures to be in place. Despite its age, the dam continues to play a vital role in the region, safeguarding against potential flooding and offering various benefits to the local community and environment.

Year Completed

1943

Dam Length

125

Dam Height

22

River Or Stream

FRENCH BROAD RIVER

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Hydraulic Height

3

Structural Height

25

Outlet Gates

None

Hazard Potential

High

Foundations

Soil

Nid Height

25
       
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.