John Sevier Dam

HOLSTON RIVER· Hawkins, Tennessee· Built 1955· Concrete· 20 ft tall
Significant Hazard Water Supply Federal Government

Key Takeaway

John Sevier Dam is classified as significant hazard in Tennessee. It was completed in 1955 and is 71 years old. Its primary use is water supply. Significant hazard means failure could cause economic or environmental damage. Learn more.

Physical Details

Dam Height 20 ft (taller than 14.7% in TN)
Dam Length1,110 ft
Dam TypeConcrete
Max Storage5.5K acre-ft
Normal Storage5.5K acre-ft
Surface Area660 acres
Drainage Area3,006 sq mi
Max Discharge395,090 cfs
Year Completed1955 (71 years old)
NID IDTN07305

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: Yes
Last Inspection: December 8, 2020
State Regulated: No

Ownership

TVA

Federal Government

Nearby Dams

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the hazard classification of John Sevier Dam?

John Sevier Dam 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 John Sevier Dam?

John Sevier Dam is owned by TVA (Federal Government). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.

When was John Sevier Dam built?

John Sevier Dam was completed in 1955, making it 71 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 John Sevier Dam?

John Sevier Dam serves the following purposes: Water Supply. Many dams in the U.S. are multi-purpose, supporting flood control, water supply, recreation, and other uses.

How tall is John Sevier Dam?

John Sevier Dam has a dam height of 20 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 John Sevier Dam last inspected?

John Sevier Dam was last inspected on December 8, 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.