Clifftops

FALLS BRANCH· Marion, Tennessee· Built 1977· Earth·
High Hazard Other Recreation Private

Key Takeaway

Clifftops is classified as high hazard in Tennessee. It was completed in 1977 and is 49 years old. Its primary use is other. 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 Length750 ft
Dam TypeEarth
Max Storage992 acre-ft
Normal Storage500 acre-ft
Surface Area77 acres
Drainage Area2 sq mi
Year Completed1977 (49 years old)
NID IDTN11505

Safety Information

High Hazard

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?

Emergency Action Plan: Yes
Last Inspection: December 21, 2020
State Regulated: Yes
Regulatory Agency: TENNESSEE SAFE DAMS PROGRAM

Ownership

CLIFFTOPS P.O.A.

Private

Nearby Dams

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the hazard classification of Clifftops?

Clifftops 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 Clifftops?

Clifftops is owned by CLIFFTOPS P.O.A. (Private). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.

When was Clifftops built?

Clifftops was completed in 1977, making it 49 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 Clifftops?

Clifftops serves the following purposes: Other, Recreation. Many dams in the U.S. are multi-purpose, supporting flood control, water supply, recreation, and other uses.

When was Clifftops last inspected?

Clifftops was last inspected on December 21, 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.