Upper Tippah Watershed Structure Lt-6-03 Dam Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 6, 2025
The Upper Tippah Watershed Structure Lt-6-03 Dam, also known as Shelby Lake, is a local government-owned dam located in Benton, Mississippi.
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Summary
Built in 1959 by USDA NRCS, this earth dam with a height of 26 feet serves the primary purpose of flood risk reduction along the TR-Tippah River and Shelby Creek. The dam has a storage capacity of 282 acre-feet and is regulated by the Mississippi Department of Environmental Quality.
Despite being classified as having a low hazard potential, the dam's risk assessment is moderate, indicating a level 3 risk. The dam features an uncontrolled spillway and outlet gates, with no associated locks or structures. While the dam's condition assessment is currently listed as "Not Rated," it is regularly inspected and regulated by the state agency to ensure public safety. The surrounding area of the dam is designated for emergency management purposes, although specific emergency action plans and inundation maps are yet to be prepared.
For water resource and climate enthusiasts, the Upper Tippah Watershed Structure Lt-6-03 Dam presents an intriguing case study in flood risk reduction infrastructure. With its historical significance, moderate risk assessment, and state-regulated status, this dam serves as a vital component in managing water resources in the region. As efforts continue to monitor and maintain its structural integrity, the dam stands as a testament to the ongoing challenges and advancements in water management and climate resilience.
Year Completed |
1959 |
Dam Height |
26 |
River Or Stream |
TR- TIPPAH RIVER; SHELBY CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Drainage Area |
1.15 |
Nid Storage |
282 |
Outlet Gates |
Uncontrolled |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Soil |
Nid Height |
26 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Hatchie River Near Walnut
|
153cfs |
Wolf River At Lagrange
|
227cfs |
Little Tallahatchie River At Etta
|
156cfs |
Hatchie River At Bolivar
|
944cfs |
Wolf River At Rossville
|
497cfs |
Twentymile Creek Nr Guntown
|
23cfs |
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.
Upper Tippah Watershed Structure Lt-6-03 Dam