Alford Butler Lake Dam Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 5, 2025
Alford Butler Lake Dam, located in Alligator, Mississippi, was completed in 1962 and is primarily used for recreation purposes.
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Summary
The dam, with a height of 9 feet and constructed using earth and buttress core types, provides a storage capacity of 243 acre-feet. It is owned and regulated by a private entity but falls under the oversight of the Mississippi Department of Environmental Quality. Despite its low hazard potential and moderate risk assessment, the dam's condition is currently not rated, highlighting the need for regular inspections and maintenance to ensure its stability and safety.
Managed by the USDA NRCS, Alford Butler Lake Dam features an uncontrolled spillway and outlet gates. The dam overlooks the TR- Alligator Bayou, offering a picturesque setting for water resource and climate enthusiasts to appreciate the surrounding natural beauty. While the dam's associated structures and inspection frequency are not specified, its moderate risk level underscores the importance of implementing effective risk management measures to mitigate any potential hazards and protect the local community and environment.
Overall, Alford Butler Lake Dam serves as a vital recreational resource in Bolivar County, Mississippi, attracting visitors with its scenic views and water-based activities. With proper monitoring and maintenance, this earth dam can continue to provide enjoyment for individuals while safeguarding against any unforeseen risks or emergencies. As water resource and climate enthusiasts explore this site, they can appreciate the balance between recreation and environmental conservation that is crucial for sustainable water management practices.
Year Completed |
1962 |
Dam Height |
9 |
River Or Stream |
TR- ALLIGATOR BAYOU |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Nid Storage |
243 |
Outlet Gates |
Uncontrolled |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Soil |
Nid Height |
9 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Big Sunflower River At Clarksdale
|
58cfs |
Big Sunflower River Nr Merigold
|
703cfs |
Big Sunflower River At Sunflower
|
1370cfs |
Tallahatchie River At Money
|
6080cfs |
Bogue Phalia Nr Leland
|
1110cfs |
Bayou Bartholomew Near Mcgehee
|
243cfs |
Dam Data Reference
Condition Assessment
SatisfactoryNo existing or potential dam safety deficiencies are recognized. Acceptable performance is expected under all loading conditions (static, hydrologic, seismic) in accordance with the minimum applicable state or federal regulatory criteria or tolerable risk guidelines.
Fair
No existing dam safety deficiencies are recognized for normal operating conditions. Rare or extreme hydrologic and/or seismic events may result in a dam safety deficiency. Risk may be in the range to take further action. Note: Rare or extreme event is defined by the regulatory agency based on their minimum
Poor A dam safety deficiency is recognized for normal operating conditions which may realistically occur. Remedial action is necessary. POOR may also be used when uncertainties exist as to critical analysis parameters which identify a potential dam safety deficiency. Investigations and studies are necessary.
Unsatisfactory
A dam safety deficiency is recognized that requires immediate or emergency remedial action for problem resolution.
Not Rated
The dam has not been inspected, is not under state or federal jurisdiction, or has been inspected but, for whatever reason, has not been rated.
Not Available
Dams for which the condition assessment is restricted to approved government users.
Hazard Potential Classification
HighDams assigned the high hazard potential classification are those where failure or mis-operation will probably cause loss of human life.
Significant
Dams assigned the significant hazard potential classification are those dams where failure or mis-operation results in no probable loss of human life but can cause economic loss, environment damage, disruption of lifeline facilities, or impact other concerns. Significant hazard potential classification dams are often located in predominantly rural or agricultural areas but could be in areas with population and significant infrastructure.
Low
Dams assigned the low hazard potential classification are those where failure or mis-operation results in no probable loss of human life and low economic and/or environmental losses. Losses are principally limited to the owner's property.
Undetermined
Dams for which a downstream hazard potential has not been designated or is not provided.
Not Available
Dams for which the downstream hazard potential is restricted to approved government users.
Alford Butler Lake Dam