Chief Creek

CHIEF CREEK· Lewis, Tennessee· Built 1970· Earth·
Significant Hazard Private

Key Takeaway

Chief Creek is classified as significant hazard in Tennessee. It was completed in 1970 and is 56 years old. Significant hazard means failure could cause economic or environmental damage. Learn more.

Physical Details

Dam Length690 ft
Dam TypeEarth
Max Storage3.1K acre-ft
Normal Storage1.5K acre-ft
Surface Area96 acres
Drainage Area15 sq mi
Year Completed1970 (56 years old)
NID IDTN10106

Safety Information

Significant Hazard

No probable loss of human life, but can cause economic loss, environmental damage, or disruption of lifeline facilities.

Hazard potential describes downstream consequences of failure, not the dam's current condition. What does this mean?

Emergency Action Plan: No
Last Inspection: June 1, 2020
State Regulated: Yes
Regulatory Agency: TENNESSEE SAFE DAMS PROGRAM

Ownership

NATCHEZ TRACE WILDERNESS PRESERVE

Private

Nearby Dams

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the hazard classification of Chief Creek?

Chief Creek is classified as Significant Hazard. No probable loss of human life, but can cause economic loss, environmental damage, or disruption of lifeline facilities. This classification refers to the potential downstream consequences of a failure, not the dam's current structural condition.

Who owns and operates Chief Creek?

Chief Creek is owned by NATCHEZ TRACE WILDERNESS PRESERVE (Private). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.

When was Chief Creek built?

Chief Creek was completed in 1970, making it 56 years old. Many U.S. dams were built between the 1930s and 1970s during a period of major infrastructure investment.

When was Chief Creek last inspected?

Chief Creek was last inspected on June 1, 2020. Inspection dates indicate when a formal review occurred, not the results of that inspection.

Data from the National Inventory of Dams (NID) maintained by the US Army Corps of Engineers. Dam conditions may have changed since the last update. This site is not affiliated with USACE. Do not use for emergency planning — contact your local dam safety program.