Watkins Lake Dam Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 6, 2025
Watkins Lake Dam, located in Oktibbeha, Mississippi, was completed in 1965 and is primarily used for recreation.
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Summary
The dam, designed by the USDA NRCS, stands at a height of 12 feet and has a storage capacity of 80 acre-feet. It is classified as an earth dam with a buttress core type and a soil foundation. The dam is situated on TR- BIG CREEK and falls under the jurisdiction of the Mississippi Department of Environmental Quality.
With a low hazard potential and a moderate risk assessment rating, Watkins Lake Dam is not currently rated for its condition. The dam features an uncontrolled spillway and outlet gates, with no associated locks. While it has not been inspected recently, the state agency responsible for its regulation, inspection, and enforcement is known to be actively involved in overseeing its maintenance and operation.
For water resource and climate enthusiasts, Watkins Lake Dam presents an intriguing case study in dam management and regulation. With its unique design features and historical significance, the dam serves as a focal point for understanding the intersection of water conservation, recreation, and environmental protection. As efforts to assess and mitigate risks associated with dams continue to evolve, Watkins Lake Dam remains a key example of the ongoing challenges and opportunities in maintaining sustainable water infrastructure.
Year Completed |
1965 |
Dam Height |
12 |
River Or Stream |
TR- BIG CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Nid Storage |
80 |
Outlet Gates |
Uncontrolled |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Soil |
Nid Height |
12 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Catalpa Creek At Mayhew
|
2940cfs |
Tombigbee River At Stennis Lock And Dam
|
2610cfs |
Noxubee River At Macon
|
147cfs |
Luxapallila Creek Nr Columbus
|
525cfs |
Pearl River At Burnside
|
1070cfs |
Tombigbee River At Aberdeen Lock And Dam
|
121cfs |
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.
Watkins Lake Dam