Great Falls Dam Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 6, 2025
Great Falls Dam, also known as Great Falls Lake, is a federally-owned hydroelectric structure located in Carthage, Tennessee.
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Summary
Completed in 1916 by Tennessee Electric Power, this concrete gravity dam stands at a height of 82 feet and has a structural height of 92 feet. It spans 800 feet in length and has a storage capacity of 64,800 acre-feet, with a maximum discharge rate of 162,500 cubic feet per second. The dam sits on the Caney Fork River and serves as a vital source of hydroelectric power in the region.
Managed by the Tennessee Valley Authority, Great Falls Dam has a hazard potential rated as high due to its very high risk assessment. The dam features a controlled spillway with a width of 450 feet and tainter (radial) outlet gates. Over the years, it has undergone structural modifications in 1925 and 1989 to ensure its continued safe operation. While the current condition assessment is not available, regular inspections are conducted every two years to monitor its integrity and safety. The dam plays a crucial role in water resource management and climate resilience efforts in the area.
With its rich history and important role in providing hydroelectric power, Great Falls Dam stands as a testament to engineering excellence and responsible water resource management. Situated in White County, Tennessee, the dam not only harnesses the power of the Caney Fork River but also contributes to flood control and recreational opportunities in the region. As a key infrastructure owned and operated by the Tennessee Valley Authority, Great Falls Dam is a critical piece of the region's water resource and climate adaptation puzzle, ensuring sustainable development and environmental stewardship for generations to come.
Years Modified |
1925 - Structural, 1989 - Structural |
Year Completed |
1916 |
Dam Length |
800 |
Dam Height |
82 |
River Or Stream |
CANEY FORK RIVER |
Primary Dam Type |
Concrete |
Surface Area |
1830 |
Hydraulic Height |
78 |
Drainage Area |
1675 |
Nid Storage |
64800 |
Structural Height |
92 |
Outlet Gates |
Tainter (radial) |
Hazard Potential |
High |
Foundations |
Rock |
Nid Height |
92 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
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.
Great Falls Dam