Jackson Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 11, 2025

Jackson is a privately owned dam located in Williamson, Tennessee, specifically in the city of Franklin.


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Summary

Built in 1937, this earth dam stands at a height of 20 feet with a hydraulic height of 7 feet, spanning a length of 1100 feet. The dam holds a maximum storage capacity of 86 acre-feet, with a normal storage level of 38 acre-feet, covering a surface area of 11.2 acres and draining a 1.64 square mile watershed through the Dry Branch river or stream.

Managed by the Tennessee Safe Dams Program, Jackson is regulated, permitted, inspected, and enforced by state agencies. Despite its high hazard potential, the dam is deemed to be in satisfactory condition as of the last assessment in May 2020. With a moderate risk rating of 3, the dam is equipped with uncontrolled spillways and lacks outlet gates. The dam serves purposes beyond flood control, including recreation, and is crucial for water resource management in the region.

For water resource and climate enthusiasts, Jackson presents an intriguing case study of a historic dam in a rapidly developing area. Its location, design, and regulatory oversight offer insights into the intersection of infrastructure, water management, and environmental stewardship. As climate change impacts intensify, understanding the resilience and vulnerabilities of dams like Jackson becomes increasingly vital for sustainable water resource planning and adaptation strategies.

Year Completed

1937

Dam Length

1100

River Or Stream

DRY BRANCH

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

11.2

Hydraulic Height

7

Drainage Area

1.64

Nid Storage

86

Structural Height

20

Outlet Gates

None

Hazard Potential

High

Nid Height

20
       
Seasonal Comparison

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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.