Steele Creek

STEELE CREEK· Sullivan, Tennessee· Built 1963· Earth·
High Hazard Local Government

Key Takeaway

Steele Creek is classified as high hazard in Tennessee. It was completed in 1963 and is 63 years old. 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 Length210 ft
Dam TypeEarth
Max Storage2.0K acre-ft
Normal Storage528 acre-ft
Surface Area43 acres
Drainage Area12 sq mi
Year Completed1963 (63 years old)
NID IDTN16309

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: November 9, 2020
State Regulated: Yes
Regulatory Agency: TENNESSEE SAFE DAMS PROGRAM

Ownership

CITY OF BRISTOL

Local Government

Nearby Dams

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the hazard classification of Steele Creek?

Steele Creek 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 Steele Creek?

Steele Creek is owned by CITY OF BRISTOL (Local Government). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.

When was Steele Creek built?

Steele Creek was completed in 1963, making it 63 years old. Many U.S. dams were built between the 1930s and 1970s during a period of major infrastructure investment.

When was Steele Creek last inspected?

Steele Creek was last inspected on November 9, 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.