Oaklimeter Creek Watershed Structure Lt-8-17 Dam Reservoir Report
Nearby: Oaklimeter Creek Watershed Structure Lt-8-16 Dam Oaklimeter Creek Watershed Structure Lt-8-35 Dam
Last Updated: December 5, 2025
The Oaklimeter Creek Watershed Structure Lt-8-17 Dam, also known as Buck Ruckner Lake Dam, is a key flood risk reduction infrastructure owned by the local government in Benton, Mississippi.
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Summary
Built in 1963 by USDA NRCS, this earth dam stands at a height of 21 feet with a structural height of 28 feet, offering maximum storage of 490 acre-feet. Located on the UNT of Pechahalee Creek, this dam serves a crucial role in managing water resources in the area.
Despite its low hazard potential, the dam's condition was reported as unsatisfactory during its last inspection in 2015. However, it is regulated and inspected by the Mississippi Department of Environmental Quality, ensuring its compliance with state regulations. The dam features an uncontrolled spillway and outlet gates, with a moderate risk assessment score of 3. With a drainage area of 1 square mile and a maximum discharge capacity of 2070 cubic feet per second, this dam plays a vital role in flood risk mitigation for the local community.
Water resource and climate enthusiasts will find the Oaklimeter Creek Watershed Structure Lt-8-17 Dam an intriguing case study in dam management and maintenance. With its unique design and history, this dam offers valuable insights into the challenges and importance of maintaining critical infrastructure for flood risk reduction. As an earth dam constructed with stone core types, this structure showcases the collaborative efforts of various agencies in ensuring the safety and effectiveness of water management systems in the region.
Year Completed |
1963 |
Dam Length |
667 |
Dam Height |
21 |
River Or Stream |
UNT OF PECHAHALEE CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
20 |
Hydraulic Height |
18 |
Drainage Area |
1 |
Nid Storage |
490 |
Structural Height |
28 |
Outlet Gates |
Uncontrolled |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Soil |
Nid Height |
28 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Little Tallahatchie River At Etta
|
156cfs |
Wolf River At Lagrange
|
227cfs |
Yocona River Nr Oxford
|
96cfs |
Hatchie River Near Walnut
|
153cfs |
Wolf River At Rossville
|
497cfs |
Coldwater River Nr Olive Branch
|
104cfs |
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.
Oaklimeter Creek Watershed Structure Lt-8-17 Dam