Boone Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Boone Dam, also known as Boone Lake, is a concrete dam located in Kingsport, Tennessee, on the South Fork Holston River.


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Summary

Built in 1952 by the Tennessee Valley Authority (TVA), the primary purpose of this dam is flood risk reduction, with additional benefits including hydroelectric power generation, recreation, and water supply. The dam stands at a height of 160 feet and has a hydraulic height of 153 feet, with a length of 1532 feet and a storage capacity of 216,147 acre-feet.

In recent years, Boone Dam has undergone significant modifications to address foundation and structural issues, with updates in 1984, 2021, and ongoing maintenance to ensure its safety and functionality. Despite its high hazard potential, the dam is regularly inspected by TVA to assess its condition, with a risk assessment rating of very high (1). While no condition assessment is currently available, emergency action plans are in place, indicating proactive measures for potential risks.

Boone Dam remains a critical infrastructure for managing water resources and mitigating flood risks in the region. Its historical significance and ongoing maintenance efforts reflect a commitment to safeguarding the surrounding communities and environment. With its multiple benefits and continuous monitoring, Boone Dam stands as a testament to the importance of sustainable water resource management and climate resilience.

Years Modified

1984 - Hydraulic, 2021 - Foundation, 2021 - Structural

Year Completed

1952

Dam Length

1532

Dam Height

160

River Or Stream

SOUTH FORK HOLSTON RIVER

Primary Dam Type

Concrete

Surface Area

4130

Hydraulic Height

153

Drainage Area

1840

Nid Storage

216147

Structural Height

160

Outlet Gates

Slide (sluice gate), Tainter (radial)

Hazard Potential

High

Foundations

Rock, Soil

Nid Height

160
       
Seasonal Comparison

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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.