Lyle Reservoir Report
Nearby: Camp Haiyaka Lake Rowe
Last Updated: December 13, 2025
Lyle is a privately owned earth dam located in Shelby, Tennessee, along the Big Creek Drainage Canal.
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Summary
Built in 1950, this dam stands at a structural height of 32.3 feet and has a hydraulic height of 29.3 feet, with a length of 777 feet. It has a normal storage capacity of 308 acre-feet and a maximum storage of 387 acre-feet, covering a surface area of 26.3 acres and draining a 0.15 square mile area.
Managed by the Tennessee Safe Dams Program, Lyle is regulated, inspected, and enforced by the state. Classified as having a significant hazard potential, the dam is deemed to be in satisfactory condition as of the latest assessment in February 2021. With an inspection frequency of twice a year, Lyle is equipped with an uncontrolled spillway and has no outlet gates. Despite its moderate risk rating, the dam does not currently have an Emergency Action Plan prepared, raising the importance of emergency preparedness and risk management measures for the surrounding community.
For water resource and climate enthusiasts, Lyle serves as a fascinating example of infrastructure that plays a crucial role in managing water resources and mitigating flood risks. As a part of the Memphis District, this dam on the Big Creek Drainage Canal contributes to the overall water management efforts in the region. Monitoring its condition and ensuring proper maintenance will be essential in safeguarding the surrounding area and maximizing its water storage capabilities in a changing climate scenario.
Year Completed |
1950 |
Dam Length |
777 |
River Or Stream |
BIG CREEK DRAINAGE CANAL |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
26.3 |
Hydraulic Height |
29.3 |
Drainage Area |
0.15 |
Nid Storage |
387 |
Structural Height |
32.3 |
Outlet Gates |
None |
Hazard Potential |
Significant |
Nid Height |
32 |
Seasonal Comparison
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Dam Data Reference
Condition Assessment
SatisfactoryNo 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
HighDams 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.
Lyle