Calfkiller River Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 13, 2025

Located in White County, Tennessee, the Calfkiller River is a vital water resource regulated by the Tennessee Safe Dams Program.


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Summary

This concrete dam, completed in 1975, stands at a structural height of 33 feet and a hydraulic height of 13 feet, with a total length of 300 feet. The dam has a storage capacity of 390 acre-feet and serves the purpose of water storage for the region. The river's drainage area is 1.6 square miles, with a normal storage capacity of 65 acre-feet.

The Calfkiller River dam has a significant hazard potential but is currently assessed to be in satisfactory condition as of the last inspection in October 2019. The spillway type is uncontrolled, and there are no outlet gates associated with the structure. The risk assessment for the dam is moderate, with a risk management plan in place to address any potential issues. The surrounding area is at risk of inundation in case of a dam failure, highlighting the importance of proper maintenance and monitoring of this essential water resource.

Enthusiasts of water resources and climate in the area will find the Calfkiller River dam to be a fascinating infrastructure project that plays a crucial role in water storage and management in White County, Tennessee. With state regulation, inspection, and enforcement in place, the dam ensures the safety and reliability of water supply for the region. The moderate risk assessment and hazard potential emphasize the need for ongoing monitoring and maintenance to mitigate any potential risks and ensure the continued functionality of this important water structure.

Year Completed

1975

Dam Length

300

River Or Stream

CALFKILLER RIVER

Primary Dam Type

Concrete

Surface Area

21

Hydraulic Height

13

Drainage Area

1.6

Nid Storage

390

Structural Height

33

Outlet Gates

None

Hazard Potential

Significant

Nid Height

33
       
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.