Nickajack Dam
Key Takeaway
Nickajack Dam is classified as high hazard in Tennessee. It was completed in 1967 and is 59 years old. Its primary use is hydroelectric. 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 | 81 ft (taller than 74.7% in TN) |
| Dam Length | 3,767 ft |
| Dam Type | Concrete |
| Max Storage | 251.6K acre-ft |
| Normal Storage | 240.8K acre-ft |
| Surface Area | 10,200 acres |
| Drainage Area | 21,870 sq mi |
| Max Discharge | 501,900 cfs |
| Year Completed | 1967 (59 years old) |
| NID ID | TN11502 |
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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What is the hazard classification of Nickajack Dam?
Nickajack 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 Nickajack Dam?
Nickajack Dam is owned by TVA (Federal Government). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.
When was Nickajack Dam built?
Nickajack Dam was completed in 1967, making it 59 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 Nickajack Dam?
Nickajack Dam serves the following purposes: Hydroelectric, Navigation, Recreation, Water Supply. Many dams in the U.S. are multi-purpose, supporting flood control, water supply, recreation, and other uses.
How tall is Nickajack Dam?
Nickajack Dam has a dam height of 81 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 Nickajack Dam last inspected?
Nickajack Dam was last inspected on December 14, 2020. Inspection dates indicate when a formal review occurred, not the results of that inspection.