Spencer Water Supply Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 6, 2025

Spencer Water Supply is a crucial local government-owned water resource in Van Buren, Tennessee, situated along the Caney Fork River.


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Summary

This earth dam, completed in 1965, stands 38 feet tall and spans 480 feet, with a storage capacity of 358 acre-feet and a normal storage level of 220 acre-feet. The dam's purpose is primarily for water supply, serving as a vital source for the surrounding community.

Managed by the Tennessee Safe Dams Program, Spencer Water Supply is subject to state regulation, inspection, and enforcement to ensure its structural integrity and operational safety. Despite being classified as having a significant hazard potential, the dam's condition assessment deemed it satisfactory as of January 2021. With a moderate risk rating, risk management measures are in place to address potential issues and protect the surrounding area in case of emergencies.

Water resource and climate enthusiasts will appreciate the strategic importance of Spencer Water Supply in providing reliable water access to the local population. Its location along the Caney Fork River and its operational history since the 1960s highlight the significance of this earth dam in sustaining the community's water needs. The dam's compliance with state regulations and its risk management measures underscore the commitment to maintaining its safety and functionality for the benefit of all stakeholders involved.

Year Completed

1965

Dam Length

480

River Or Stream

CANEY FORK RIVER

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

25

Hydraulic Height

33

Drainage Area

0.7

Nid Storage

358

Structural Height

38

Outlet Gates

None

Hazard Potential

Significant

Nid Height

38
       
Seasonal Comparison

Weather Forecast

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.
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Area Campgrounds