Dam Safety

TVA completes safety remediation project at Boone Dam

TVA completes safety remediation project at Boone Dam

After seven years and 2 million hours of work, the Tennessee Valley Authority has completed dam safety remediation work at its Boone Dam and reopened its historic recreation area.

Boone Dam, on the South Fork Holston River in Tennessee, impounds water for a 89 MW hydroelectric powerhouse.

In 2014, TVA discovered seepage below the dam and immediately lowered the lake’s water level to ensure public safety. Remediation work started in 2015. The $326 million project involved construction of a composite seepage barrier created in several phases – which included the round-the-clock construction of an underground cutoff wall. After completion of the underground work, TVA restored the crest of the dam to its previous elevation and constructed a floodwall.

“Boone Lake is a local treasure, and I want to thank everyone for their patience as we completed the important dam safety work,” said TVA Chief Operating Officer Don Moul. “At the onset of this project, we made a commitment that we would complete this effort safely within seven years and we would do it right the first time with a high-quality repair. The recreation area provides the community with opportunities for summer fun – and the improvements we made will enhance the experience for our neighbors.”

Energy generation from Boone Unit 1, which was shut down during construction, will return to normal operations this summer, TVA said.

The lake is once again able to fill to its normal seasonal levels. Boone Lake began gaining volume in late February and will eventually rise to its normal peak level of 1,382 feet.

Partner groups on the project were the Tennessee Wildlife Resources Association (TWRA), Boone Lake Association and Boone Dam Repair Coalition.

TVA was founded to serve the region with reliable, low-cost energy; protect and enhance the environment; and drive economic development and growth.