Walnut Grove Lake Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 7, 2025

Walnut Grove Lake in Memphis, Tennessee, is a private recreational spot nestled along the Tributary of Wolf River.


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Summary

Managed by the Tennessee Safe Dams Program, this earth dam structure stands at a hydraulic height of 25.1 feet and was completed in 1963. The lake has a storage capacity of 686 acre-feet, with a normal storage of 470 acre-feet and a surface area of 46 acres, making it a popular destination for water resource and climate enthusiasts in the area.

Despite its significant hazard potential, Walnut Grove Lake is rated as satisfactory in its condition assessment as of August 2019. The dam's spillway type is uncontrolled, and its inspection frequency is set at two times per year. The risk assessment for the lake is moderate, and it poses a significant hazard potential. With its picturesque surroundings and recreational purpose, Walnut Grove Lake offers a serene setting for outdoor activities while remaining under the watchful eye of regulatory agencies.

For those interested in water resources and climate management, Walnut Grove Lake serves as a prime example of a well-maintained private dam structure in Tennessee. With its historical significance dating back to 1963, the lake continues to provide a safe and enjoyable environment for visitors to engage in various water activities. As climate change continues to impact water resources, Walnut Grove Lake stands as a testament to the importance of proper dam management and inspection protocols to ensure the safety and sustainability of such recreational water bodies.

Year Completed

1963

Dam Length

915

River Or Stream

TRIBWOLF RIVER

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

46

Hydraulic Height

25.1

Drainage Area

0.55

Nid Storage

686

Structural Height

29.4

Outlet Gates

None

Hazard Potential

Significant

Nid Height

29
       
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.