Potacocawa Watershed Structure Y-31a-12 Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

The Potacocawa Watershed Structure Y-31a-12 Dam, also known as Lott Dam #2, is a vital flood risk reduction structure located in Carroll, Mississippi.


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Summary

Built in 1966 by the USDA NRCS, this earth dam stands at a height of 34 feet and stretches for 1340 feet, with a storage capacity of 1204 acre-feet. The dam is situated on the Laden Creek and serves as a crucial component in managing water flow and reducing flood risks in the area.

Despite its important role in flood risk reduction, the Potacocawa Watershed Structure Y-31a-12 Dam is currently assessed as being in poor condition, with a low hazard potential. The dam's last inspection in March 2016 raised concerns about its structural integrity, prompting a moderate risk assessment. The State of Mississippi Department of Environmental Quality oversees the regulation and inspection of the dam, ensuring that safety protocols are adhered to while also taking into account the potential risks associated with the structure.

As water resource and climate enthusiasts, understanding the significance of structures like the Potacocawa Watershed Structure Y-31a-12 Dam is crucial in safeguarding communities from the impacts of flooding. By staying informed about the condition and management of such dams, we can contribute to the preservation of essential water resources and the protection of vulnerable areas from the adverse effects of extreme weather events.

Year Completed

1966

Dam Length

1340

Dam Height

34

River Or Stream

LADEN CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

40.9

Drainage Area

3.2

Nid Storage

1204

Outlet Gates

Uncontrolled

Hazard Potential

Low

Foundations

Soil

Nid Height

34
       
Seasonal Comparison

Weather Forecast

Dam Data Reference

Condition Assessment

Satisfactory
No 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

High
Dams 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.