Original Video

Jason Gilliam

The Columbia Dam Project: A Solution to Tennessee’s Water Crisis

The Columbia Dam Project, a decades-long discussion since the late 1960s, aims to address water scarcity in Murray County and surrounding areas by creating a reservoir on the Duck River. Initially planned alongside the Normandy Dam, the project was halted in 1983 due to environmental concerns but is now being revisited as a critical solution to regional water shortages.

Historical Context

The Tennessee Valley Authority (TVA), established in 1933, identified the Duck River—a 284-mile waterway originating near Manchester, Tennessee—as a prime location for water reservoirs. The Columbia Dam, intended to complement the completed Normandy Dam, was designed to provide flood control and a reliable water supply. Construction began in 1972 but was stopped due to concerns about its impact on species like the snail darter, monkeyface mussel, and pearly wing mussel. Subsequent discoveries of the snail darter in other waters and successful mussel conservation efforts have diminished these concerns, as evidenced by Normandy Lake’s biodiversity since 1970.

The Case for the Columbia Dam

The proposed dam would create a 12,600-acre lake within the Yanahli Wildlife Management Area, holding 290,000 acre-feet of water—larger than Tims Ford Lake. This reservoir would:

• Ensure a 100-year water supply for Murray County and nearby areas.

• Provide flood control for Columbia and downstream agricultural lands.

• Support a healthier river flow to the Tennessee River, especially during dry summer months.

• Generate electricity using modern “blue generators” suited for lower water flows.

Beyond water security, the dam promises significant economic benefits, including revenue from boating, fishing, hunting licenses, and tourism-driven businesses like hotels and restaurants. Unlike a pipeline, a lake offers recreational opportunities that boost local economies, as seen with Tims Ford and Percy Priest lakes.

The Pipeline Alternative: Challenges and Costs

An alternative proposal involves a 30-mile pipeline drawing 31 million gallons daily from the Cumberland River. However, this $1 billion project, funded by state resources, faces significant hurdles:

• Financial Feasibility: No single utility can secure a loan for a pipeline extending beyond its system. A regional water authority could address this, but convincing utilities to relinquish control is unlikely.

• Environmental Impact: The pipeline would cross the Harpeth River three times, 10 major creeks, 82 secondary creeks, and affect 169 properties, potentially requiring eminent domain and risking ecological damage.

• Cost to Consumers: Water passing through multiple suppliers (Harpeth Water, Mallorie Valley, Columbia Power and Water, Maury County Water System) would likely increase water bills significantly.

The Army Corps of Engineers has paused further Cumberland River withdrawals until a study is completed by late 2026, adding uncertainty to the pipeline option.

Addressing Environmental and Community Concerns

The Duck River, known for its biodiversity, currently faces unsustainable withdrawals of 35 million gallons daily, with pending permits potentially increasing this to 65 million. The Columbia Dam would trap rainfall and allow controlled water releases, maintaining healthier downstream flows and mitigating flooding in areas like Cross Bridges and Williamsport.

Community concerns include eminent domain and property loss. Approximately 1,000 acres (7% of the required land) remain to be acquired, primarily from Rogers Group, the Kennedy family, and a few private landowners. Affected residents, including those who built homes in the proposed lake area, would be compensated. Historical precedent, such as Clark Hill Lake, shows that while eminent domain is sensitive, it serves the greater good when executed fairly.

Project Timeline and Next Steps

The project requires a feasibility study to update cost analyses and confirm benefits like power generation. Support from county commissions, municipalities, and state and congressional leaders is crucial. If fast-tracked, the project could be completed in 7–10 years. Infrastructure improvements, such as elevating 11 miles of I-65 to accommodate the dam, may also be necessary but align with existing plans to widen the highway.

Community Engagement

The Columbia Dam Now initiative, led by co-founder Jason Gilliam, emphasizes transparency and community involvement. Monthly meetings and updates are available at columbiadamnow.com, where residents can voice concerns and learn more. The project’s urgency is underscored by 8,000 pending home permits in Murray County, which will further strain the Duck River’s limited resources.

Conclusion

The Columbia Dam Project offers a sustainable, multifaceted solution to Tennessee’s water scarcity, promising water security, flood control, economic growth, and recreational opportunities. While the pipeline alternative faces financial and environmental challenges, the dam leverages existing land and modern technology to meet the region’s needs for the next century. Community support and a completed feasibility study will be key to moving this critical project forward.