Tenn. Code Ann. § 69-5-116: Location of drains and ditches

The ditches and drains provided for shall be surveyed and located along the general course of the natural streams and watercourses, or in the general course of the natural drainage of the lands of the district, unless there is some special and good reason why the natural course should be departed from to secure a new and better outlet, having due regard to the straightening and shortening of such natural streams, watercourses, and course of natural drainage.