Fairvue Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 11, 2025

Fairvue is a privately owned dam located in Hendersonville, Tennessee, specifically on the Rankin Branch river.


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Summary

Built in 1953, this Earth-type dam stands at a hydraulic height of 16.9 feet and a structural height of 22.9 feet, with a length of 585 feet. The dam has a maximum storage capacity of 300 acre-feet and a normal storage of 118 acre-feet, covering a surface area of 21.8 acres and serving a drainage area of 1.62 square miles.

Managed by the Tennessee Safe Dams Program, Fairvue is classified as a significant hazard potential dam with a satisfactory condition assessment as of November 2020. The dam has a spillway type of Uncontrolled and is regularly inspected every two years to ensure its safety and integrity. In terms of risk assessment, Fairvue is considered to have a moderate risk level.

For water resource and climate enthusiasts, Fairvue presents an intriguing case study in dam management and safety. With its historical significance, engineering details, and regulatory oversight, this dam serves as a vital component in the local water infrastructure while also posing potential risks that necessitate regular monitoring and maintenance. Its location in a growing city like Hendersonville highlights the importance of sustainable water resource management practices in the face of changing climate conditions.

Year Completed

1953

Dam Length

585

River Or Stream

RANKIN BRANCH

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

21.8

Hydraulic Height

16.9

Drainage Area

1.62

Nid Storage

300

Structural Height

22.9

Outlet Gates

None

Hazard Potential

Significant

Nid Height

23
       
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.