Beaver Lake Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 7, 2025

Beaver Lake is a local government-owned water resource located in Memphis, Tennessee, along the TRIBWOLF RIVER.


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Summary

Managed by the Tennessee Safe Dams Program, this earth dam was completed in 1939 and stands at a structural height of 14.7 feet with a hydraulic height of 12.3 feet. The dam has a normal storage capacity of 93 acre-feet and a maximum storage of 143 acre-feet, serving as a crucial reservoir in the region with a surface area of 19 acres and a drainage area of 0.23 square miles.

Despite its age, Beaver Lake remains in satisfactory condition and poses a low hazard potential, as assessed during its last inspection in June 2018. With a moderate risk rating of 3, the dam has been equipped with uncontrolled spillways and no outlet gates. While the dam has not undergone significant modifications in recent years, it is subject to regular inspections and enforcement by the Tennessee Safe Dams Program to ensure its continued safety and functionality for water resource and climate enthusiasts in the area.

Beaver Lake stands as a testament to the enduring infrastructure in Tennessee, providing vital water storage and flood control capabilities along the TRIBWOLF RIVER. Its satisfactory condition, low hazard potential, and moderate risk assessment highlight the commitment to maintaining and monitoring crucial water resources in the region. As a significant landmark in Memphis, Beaver Lake serves as a reminder of the importance of sustainable water management in the face of changing climate patterns and environmental challenges.

Year Completed

1939

Dam Length

690

River Or Stream

TRIBWOLF RIVER

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

19

Hydraulic Height

12.3

Drainage Area

0.23

Nid Storage

143

Structural Height

14.7

Outlet Gates

None

Hazard Potential

Low

Nid Height

15
       
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.