Willow Lake Reservoir Report
Nearby: Haynes Lake Bradshaw
Last Updated: December 11, 2025
Willow Lake, situated in Sumner, Tennessee, near Fountain Head, is a private water resource managed by the Tennessee Safe Dams Program.
°F
°F
mph
Wind
%
Humidity
Summary
Originally completed in 1940, this earth dam stands at a hydraulic height of 16.5 feet and a structural height of 22.2 feet, with a length of 545 feet. The lake has a storage capacity of 352 acre-feet and covers a surface area of 25.5 acres, primarily serving purposes such as fire protection, stock watering, and recreational activities.
With a drainage area of 2.36 square miles and a high hazard potential, Willow Lake is inspected regularly to ensure its structural integrity and overall safety. The dam's condition was assessed as satisfactory during the last inspection in June 2020, with a moderate risk rating of 3. Although the spillway type is uncontrolled, the dam has no outlet gates, posing a challenge in managing water levels during peak discharge events. Despite these factors, the lake remains a significant feature for water and climate enthusiasts, offering a serene environment for various outdoor activities.
Year Completed |
1940 |
Dam Length |
545 |
River Or Stream |
TRIBW FORK DRAKES CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
25.5 |
Hydraulic Height |
16.5 |
Drainage Area |
2.36 |
Nid Storage |
352 |
Structural Height |
22.2 |
Outlet Gates |
None |
Hazard Potential |
High |
Nid Height |
22 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
West Fork Drakes Creek Near Franklin
|
26cfs |
Dry Creek Near Edenwold
|
1cfs |
Drakes Creek Near Alvaton
|
154cfs |
Whites Creek Near Bordeaux
|
14cfs |
Cumberland River At Woodland St At Nashville
|
7180cfs |
Cumberland River At Nashville
|
13800cfs |
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.
Willow Lake