Watts Bar Dam
Key Takeaway
Watts Bar Dam is classified as high hazard in Tennessee. It was completed in 1942 and is 84 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 | 118 ft (taller than 84% in TN) |
| Dam Length | 2,960 ft |
| Dam Type | Concrete |
| Max Storage | 1.4M acre-ft |
| Normal Storage | 1.0M acre-ft |
| Surface Area | 37,500 acres |
| Drainage Area | 17,310 sq mi |
| Max Discharge | 690,000 cfs |
| Year Completed | 1942 (84 years old) |
| NID ID | TN12102 |
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 Watts Bar Dam?
Watts Bar 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 Watts Bar Dam?
Watts Bar Dam is owned by TVA (Federal Government). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.
When was Watts Bar Dam built?
Watts Bar Dam was completed in 1942, making it 84 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 Watts Bar Dam?
Watts Bar Dam serves the following purposes: Flood Risk Reduction, Navigation, Recreation, Hydroelectric. Many dams in the U.S. are multi-purpose, supporting flood control, water supply, recreation, and other uses.
How tall is Watts Bar Dam?
Watts Bar Dam has a dam height of 118 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 Watts Bar Dam last inspected?
Watts Bar Dam was last inspected on May 21, 2020. Inspection dates indicate when a formal review occurred, not the results of that inspection.