Tims Ford Dam
Key Takeaway
Tims Ford Dam is classified as high hazard in Tennessee. It was completed in 1970 and is 56 years old. Its primary use is flood risk reduction. 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 | 163 ft (taller than 92% in TN) |
| Dam Length | 1,580 ft |
| Dam Type | Rockfill |
| Max Storage | 824.3K acre-ft |
| Normal Storage | 530.0K acre-ft |
| Surface Area | 10,500 acres |
| Drainage Area | 529 sq mi |
| Max Discharge | 140,100 cfs |
| Year Completed | 1970 (56 years old) |
| NID ID | TN05102 |
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
Nearby Dams
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the hazard classification of Tims Ford Dam?
Tims Ford 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 Tims Ford Dam?
Tims Ford Dam is owned by TVA (Federal Government). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.
When was Tims Ford Dam built?
Tims Ford Dam 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.
What is the primary purpose of Tims Ford Dam?
Tims Ford Dam serves the following purposes: Flood Risk Reduction, Other, Recreation, Hydroelectric, Water Supply. Many dams in the U.S. are multi-purpose, supporting flood control, water supply, recreation, and other uses.
How tall is Tims Ford Dam?
Tims Ford Dam has a dam height of 163 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 Tims Ford Dam last inspected?
Tims Ford Dam was last inspected on August 26, 2020. Inspection dates indicate when a formal review occurred, not the results of that inspection.