Center Hill Dam
Key Takeaway
Center Hill Dam is classified as high hazard in Tennessee. It was completed in 1951 and is 75 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 Length | 2,160 ft |
| Dam Type | Other |
| Max Storage | 2.1M acre-ft |
| Normal Storage | 1.3M acre-ft |
| Surface Area | 18,220 acres |
| Drainage Area | 2,174 sq mi |
| Max Discharge | 454,000 cfs |
| Year Completed | 1951 (75 years old) |
| NID ID | TN04102 |
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
USACE - Nashville District
Federal Government
Nearby Dams
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the hazard classification of Center Hill Dam?
Center Hill 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 Center Hill Dam?
Center Hill Dam is owned by USACE - Nashville District (Federal Government). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.
When was Center Hill Dam built?
Center Hill Dam was completed in 1951, making it 75 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 Center Hill Dam?
Center Hill Dam serves the following purposes: Flood Risk Reduction, Other, Recreation, Hydroelectric, Water Supply. Many dams in the U.S. are multi-purpose, supporting flood control, water supply, recreation, and other uses.
When was Center Hill Dam last inspected?
Center Hill Dam was last inspected on March 31, 2021. Inspection dates indicate when a formal review occurred, not the results of that inspection.