Big Sand Watershed Structure Y-32-08 Dam Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 6, 2025
The Big Sand Watershed Structure Y-32-08 Dam, also known as Ferguson Dam #2, is a vital water resource infrastructure located in McCarley, Carroll County, Mississippi.
°F
°F
mph
Wind
%
Humidity
Summary
Built in 1967 by the USDA NRCS, this earth dam serves the primary purpose of flood risk reduction on Whitehead Creek, with a storage capacity of 2476 acre-feet. The dam stands at a height of 34 feet and is classified as having a low hazard potential and fair condition assessment.
Managed by the Mississippi Department of Environmental Quality, this dam is state-regulated, permitted, inspected, and enforced to ensure its safety and functionality. Although it has an uncontrolled spillway and outlet gates, the structure has not undergone significant modifications since its completion. With a moderate risk rating, the Big Sand Watershed Structure Y-32-08 Dam plays a crucial role in protecting the surrounding area from flooding and managing water resources in the region. For water resource and climate enthusiasts, this dam presents an opportunity to study the intersection of infrastructure, water management, and environmental stewardship.
Year Completed |
1967 |
Dam Height |
34 |
River Or Stream |
WHITEHEAD CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Drainage Area |
4.94 |
Nid Storage |
2476 |
Outlet Gates |
Uncontrolled |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Soil |
Nid Height |
34 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Batupan Bogue At Grenada
|
134cfs |
Yalobusha River At Grenada
|
3080cfs |
Big Black River At West
|
223cfs |
Tallahatchie River At Money
|
6080cfs |
Abiaca Creek At Cruger
|
44cfs |
Harland Creek Nr Howard
|
3340cfs |
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.
Big Sand Watershed Structure Y-32-08 Dam