Thompson Lake Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 7, 2025

Thompson Lake in Memphis, Tennessee, is a privately owned dam regulated by the Tennessee Safe Dams Program.


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Summary

Built in 1988, this earth dam serves primarily for recreational purposes and is situated on the Tributary of Wolf River. With a structural height of 28 feet and a hydraulic height of 22.4 feet, the dam has a storage capacity of 72 acre-feet and covers a surface area of 4 acres.

Despite its high hazard potential, Thompson Lake's condition assessment in August 2020 was deemed satisfactory. The dam features an uncontrolled spillway and has no outlet gates or associated structures. With a drainage area of 0.05 square miles, the dam poses a moderate risk according to the risk assessment rating. The surrounding community benefits from the recreational opportunities offered by the lake, while being assured of the dam's safe operation through regular inspections and enforcement by state regulatory agencies.

Enthusiasts of water resources and climate will find Thompson Lake an intriguing study in dam infrastructure and its interaction with the surrounding environment. As a focal point for recreation in Shelby County, this dam on the Wolf River tributary not only provides leisure activities but also serves as a vital water resource in the region. Its management and maintenance by the Tennessee Safe Dams Program highlight the importance of regulatory oversight in ensuring the safety and sustainability of such structures amidst changing climate conditions.

Year Completed

1988

Dam Length

420

River Or Stream

TRIBWOLF RIVER

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

4

Hydraulic Height

22.4

Drainage Area

0.05

Nid Storage

72

Structural Height

28

Outlet Gates

None

Hazard Potential

High

Nid Height

28
       
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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.