Polk is a privately owned earth dam located in Sumner, Tennessee, completed in 1926 for the primary purposes of fire protection, stock, and small fish pond. This dam stands at a structural height of 25 feet, with a length of 250 feet, and a storage capacity of 47 acre-feet. Despite having a high hazard potential, Polk is currently not rated in terms of its condition assessment.

The dam, managed by the Nashville District of the US Army Corps of Engineers, has a drainage area of 0.13 square miles and a surface area of 4.3 acres. While it does not have a controlled spillway, it is crucial for maintaining water resources in the region. With a moderate risk assessment rating of 3, Polk serves as a reminder of the importance of proper maintenance and monitoring for the safety and sustainability of our water infrastructure in the face of changing climate conditions.

Water resource and climate enthusiasts will find Polk to be an intriguing case study in dam management and risk assessment. Its historical significance, combined with its high hazard potential and moderate risk assessment, highlight the need for ongoing monitoring and maintenance to ensure the safety and integrity of our water infrastructure in Tennessee and beyond. As climate change continues to impact our water resources, the lessons learned from structures like Polk will be essential in safeguarding our communities and ecosystems for the future.