Beech Dam
Key Takeaway
Beech Dam is classified as high hazard in Tennessee. It was completed in 1963 and is 63 years old. Its primary use is flood risk reduction. High hazard means loss of life is likely if the dam fails — it does not indicate the dam's current condition. Learn more.
Physical Details
| Dam Height | 44 ft (taller than 58.7% in TN) |
| Dam Length | 1,615 ft |
| Dam Type | Earth |
| Max Storage | 15.5K acre-ft |
| Normal Storage | 11.1K acre-ft |
| Surface Area | 877 acres |
| Drainage Area | 16 sq mi |
| Max Discharge | 26,000 cfs |
| Year Completed | 1963 (63 years old) |
| Year Modified | 1988 |
| NID ID | TN07705 |
Safety Information
Loss of human life is likely if the dam fails.
Hazard potential describes downstream consequences of failure, not the dam's current condition. What does this mean?
Ownership
TVA
Federal Government
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Significant HazardFrequently Asked Questions
What is the hazard classification of Beech Dam?
Beech Dam is classified as High Hazard. Loss of human life is likely if the dam fails. This classification refers to the potential downstream consequences of a failure, not the dam's current structural condition.
Who owns and operates Beech Dam?
Beech Dam is owned by TVA (Federal Government). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.
When was Beech Dam built?
Beech Dam was completed in 1963, making it 63 years old. Many U.S. dams were built between the 1930s and 1970s during a period of major infrastructure investment.
What is the primary purpose of Beech Dam?
Beech Dam serves the following purposes: Flood Risk Reduction, Recreation, Water Supply. Many dams in the U.S. are multi-purpose, supporting flood control, water supply, recreation, and other uses.
How tall is Beech Dam?
Beech Dam has a dam height of 44 ft. Dam height is measured from the natural streambed at the downstream toe to the top of the dam, and may differ from the visible height.
When was Beech Dam last inspected?
Beech Dam was last inspected on July 28, 2020. Inspection dates indicate when a formal review occurred, not the results of that inspection.