South Holston Dam - Saddle Dam No. 1 Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

South Holston Dam - Saddle Dam No.


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Summary

1, also known as South Holston Lake, is a federal-owned structure located in Sullivan, Tennessee, near the city of Bluff City. Built in 1950 by the Tennessee Valley Authority (TVA), this earth-type dam stands at a height of 40 feet and spans a length of 3700 feet along the South Fork Holston River. Its primary purpose is flood risk reduction, making it a crucial component of the local water resource management system.

With a hazard potential rated as high and a risk assessment score of 2, South Holston Dam is closely monitored by the TVA to ensure its structural integrity and safety. The dam has not been modified in recent years, and its condition assessment is currently listed as not available. Despite its high risk classification, no state regulatory agency oversees its operations or inspections, with all responsibilities falling under the TVA's jurisdiction.

In the event of an emergency, the dam does not have a designated Emergency Action Plan (EAP) in place, raising concerns about preparedness and response measures. Given its location and importance in flood control, it is essential for stakeholders and authorities to prioritize the development of an EAP and implement necessary risk management measures to safeguard the surrounding communities and water resources.

Year Completed

1950

Dam Length

3700

Dam Height

40

River Or Stream

SOUTH FORK HOLSTON RIVER

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Hydraulic Height

30

Structural Height

40

Outlet Gates

None

Hazard Potential

High

Foundations

Soil

Nid Height

40
       
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.