Poplar Tree Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 12, 2025

Poplar Tree is a state-regulated earth dam located in Shelby, Tennessee, near the city of Memphis.


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Summary

Built in 1952, it stands at a structural height of 50.5 feet with a hydraulic height of 34.3 feet and a length of 1360 feet. The dam has a maximum storage capacity of 2255 acre-feet and a drainage area of 1.74 square miles, serving the purpose of water resource management along Dry Bayou.

Despite being classified as having a low hazard potential and being in satisfactory condition, Poplar Tree poses a moderate risk with a rating of 3. Regular inspections are conducted by the Tennessee Safe Dams Program, with the last assessment completed in November 2020. The dam is equipped with an uncontrolled spillway and has no outlet gates. While there are no associated structures or locks, the dam's emergency action plan status and risk management measures are currently undisclosed.

Water resource and climate enthusiasts interested in the operational and safety aspects of dams will find Poplar Tree's data informative. With its historical significance and vital role in managing water resources in the region, this state-regulated earth dam serves as a focal point for understanding the complexities and challenges of maintaining critical infrastructure in the face of evolving climate conditions and environmental risks.

Year Completed

1952

Dam Length

1360

River Or Stream

DRY BAYOU

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

112

Hydraulic Height

34.3

Drainage Area

1.74

Nid Storage

2255

Structural Height

50.5

Outlet Gates

None

Hazard Potential

Low

Nid Height

51
       
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.