Middlebrook Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Middlebrook is a privately owned dam located in Sullivan, Tennessee, along Sinking Creek.


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Summary

Constructed in 1971, this earth dam stands at a structural height of 17 feet and has a hydraulic height of 12.5 feet. With a storage capacity of 222 acre-feet and a drainage area of 5.29 square miles, Middlebrook serves a vital role in water resource management in the region.

The dam is regulated by the Tennessee Safe Dams Program, ensuring that it is inspected, permitted, and enforced to meet state standards. Despite being classified as having a significant hazard potential, Middlebrook received a satisfactory condition assessment during its last inspection in May 2020. With a moderate risk rating, the dam is equipped with emergency action plans and is regularly monitored to mitigate any potential risks to the surrounding area.

Middlebrook's presence on Sinking Creek not only provides water storage and flood control benefits but also highlights the importance of proper dam management in ensuring the safety and sustainability of water resources in Tennessee. As a key component of the local water infrastructure, Middlebrook serves as a reminder of the significant role that dams play in managing and protecting our natural environment in the face of changing climate conditions.

Year Completed

1971

Dam Length

1625

River Or Stream

SINKING CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

22

Hydraulic Height

12.5

Drainage Area

5.29

Nid Storage

222

Structural Height

17

Outlet Gates

None

Hazard Potential

Significant

Nid Height

17
       
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.