Willoughby Woods Reservoir Report
Nearby: Spring Lake Beaver
Last Updated: December 13, 2025
Located in Shelby, Tennessee, Willoughby Woods is a state-regulated dam with a primary purpose of recreation.
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Summary
Completed in 1990, this earth dam stands at a structural height of 26 feet and has a hydraulic height of 22.6 feet. The dam spans a length of 730 feet and has a maximum storage capacity of 75 acre-feet.
The dam poses a significant hazard potential but has been assessed to be in satisfactory condition as of August 2019. With a drainage area of 0.09 square miles and a surface area of 8.7 acres, Willoughby Woods is situated along the Tributary of Howard Creek. Despite its moderate risk assessment rating, the dam has not experienced any modifications and lacks outlet gates for controlled water release.
Managed by the Tennessee Safe Dams Program, Willoughby Woods is subject to regular state inspections, permitting, and enforcement. The dam's emergency action plan status and risk management measures remain unspecified. Overall, this dam serves as a recreational resource in the Memphis District, attracting water resource and climate enthusiasts to its tranquil waters and scenic surroundings.
Year Completed |
1990 |
Dam Length |
730 |
River Or Stream |
TRIBHOWARD CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
8.7 |
Hydraulic Height |
22.6 |
Drainage Area |
0.09 |
Nid Storage |
75 |
Structural Height |
26 |
Outlet Gates |
None |
Hazard Potential |
Significant |
Nid Height |
26 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
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.
Willoughby Woods