Five Coves Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 11, 2025

Five Coves, located in Sumner, Tennessee, is a privately owned dam on the TRIBCUMBERLAND RIVER with a primary purpose of recreation.


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Summary

Built in 1967, this earth dam stands at a hydraulic height of 17.3 feet and a structural height of 21.5 feet, providing a storage capacity of 58 acre-feet. The dam covers a surface area of 5 acres and drains an area of 0.08 square miles, with a spillway type categorized as uncontrolled.

Maintained by the Tennessee Safe Dams Program, Five Coves has a satisfactory condition assessment and a high hazard potential. Despite its moderate risk assessment rating, the dam remains in compliance with state regulations, undergoing regular inspections and enforcement procedures. Although the dam lacks outlet gates and locks, it continues to serve its recreational purpose effectively while ensuring the safety of the surrounding area.

With its picturesque location and crucial role in water resource management, Five Coves stands as a testament to responsible dam construction and maintenance. Enthusiasts of water resources and climate will appreciate the careful oversight and commitment to safety exhibited by the state authorities in managing this vital infrastructure.

Year Completed

1967

Dam Length

260

River Or Stream

TRIBCUMBERLAND RIVER

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

5

Hydraulic Height

17.3

Drainage Area

0.08

Nid Storage

58

Structural Height

21.5

Outlet Gates

None

Hazard Potential

High

Nid Height

22
       
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.