Douglas Dam - Dandridge Backwater Dike Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Douglas Dam, also known as Douglas Lake, is a vital flood risk reduction structure located in Dandridge, Tennessee.


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Summary

Owned and operated by the Tennessee Valley Authority (TVA), this Federal dam was completed in 1943 and stands at a height of 52 feet, with a structural height of 60 feet. The primary purpose of this earth dam is flood risk reduction, serving as a crucial infrastructure along the French Broad River.

Designed by TVA, the Douglas Dam - Dandridge Backwater Dike is one of 11 associated structures in the area. With a high hazard potential, this dam plays a critical role in protecting the surrounding Jefferson County community from potential flooding events. The dam's emergency action plan was last revised in July 2020, indicating ongoing efforts to ensure the safety and security of the region.

For water resource and climate enthusiasts, the Douglas Dam - Dandridge Backwater Dike is not just a structure but a symbol of resilience and proactive risk management in the face of natural disasters. With a history dating back to the early 20th century, this Federal dam continues to be a cornerstone of flood protection in the region, highlighting the importance of sustainable water resource management in the face of changing climatic conditions.

Year Completed

1943

Dam Length

1000

Dam Height

52

River Or Stream

FRENCH BROAD RIVER

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Hydraulic Height

41

Structural Height

60

Outlet Gates

None

Hazard Potential

High

Foundations

Soil

Nid Height

60
       
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.