Billy's Branch Reservoir Report
Nearby: Spain Lake Firestone #1
Last Updated: December 13, 2025
Billy's Branch is a vital water supply dam located in White County, Tennessee, designed by the USDA NRCS and regulated by the Tennessee Safe Dams Program.
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Summary
Completed in 1973, this earth dam stands at a hydraulic height of 45.3 feet and a structural height of 52 feet, with a storage capacity of 2303 acre-feet and a surface area of 90 acres. Its primary purpose is water supply, serving the community of Lost Creek and the surrounding area.
With a high hazard potential and a satisfactory condition assessment as of December 2020, Billy's Branch is crucial for water resource management in the region. The dam's spillway type is uncontrolled, and it lacks outlet gates, posing challenges in managing water discharge during emergencies. Despite its moderate risk assessment rating of 3, the dam benefits from regular inspections and enforcement by the Tennessee Safe Dams Program, ensuring its safe operation and maintenance for the future.
As a significant infrastructure managed by a public utility, Billy's Branch plays a key role in water supply and climate resilience efforts in Tennessee. With its history of reliable service since the 1970s and ongoing regulatory oversight, the dam stands as a testament to the importance of sound infrastructure management in safeguarding water resources for communities in White County and beyond.
Year Completed |
1973 |
Dam Length |
950 |
River Or Stream |
BILLY'S BRANCH |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
90 |
Hydraulic Height |
45.3 |
Drainage Area |
1.25 |
Nid Storage |
2303 |
Structural Height |
52 |
Outlet Gates |
None |
Hazard Potential |
High |
Foundations |
Rock, Soil |
Nid Height |
52 |
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.
Billy's Branch