Cordell Hull Lock And Dam Reservoir Report
Nearby: Elmwood Tailings Vick Varallo Lake
Last Updated: December 13, 2025
Cordell Hull Lock and Dam, located on the Cumberland River in Carthage, Tennessee, is a federal-owned structure managed by the US Army Corps of Engineers.
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Summary
Completed in 1973, this gravity dam serves multiple purposes, including hydroelectric power generation, navigation, water supply, and recreation. With a hydraulic height of 87 feet and a structural height of 93 feet, the dam has a length of 1306 feet and a storage capacity of 310,900 acre-feet.
The primary purpose of Cordell Hull Lock and Dam is recreation, providing opportunities for boating, fishing, and other water-based activities. The dam, which features a controlled spillway and a single lock with dimensions of 400 feet in length and 84 feet in width, poses a high hazard potential due to the consequences of an overtopping failure of the compacted clay embankment. However, the US Army Corps of Engineers has implemented risk management measures to reduce the risk to the public, including regular inspections, monitoring, maintenance, and emergency preparedness activities.
Overall, Cordell Hull Lock and Dam plays a crucial role in managing water resources in Tennessee, while also offering recreational opportunities for visitors. As a key component of the Cumberland River system, this dam showcases the importance of balancing water management with public safety and environmental preservation in the face of changing climate conditions.
Year Completed |
1973 |
Dam Length |
1306 |
River Or Stream |
CUMBERLAND RIVER |
Primary Dam Type |
Gravity |
Surface Area |
11960 |
Length Of Locks |
400 |
Hydraulic Height |
87 |
Drainage Area |
8096 |
Nid Storage |
310900 |
Structural Height |
93 |
Hazard Potential |
High |
Foundations |
Rock |
Nid Height |
93 |
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.
Cordell Hull Lock And Dam