Ellison Creek Watershed Structure 3 Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 7, 2025

Ellison Creek Watershed Structure 3 Dam, also known as Pepper's Lake, is a local government-owned structure located in Edwards, Mississippi.


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Summary

Built in 1961 by the USDA NRCS, this earth dam stands at 19 feet tall and serves primarily for flood risk reduction along Ellison Creek. With a storage capacity of 377 acre-feet, the dam plays a crucial role in managing water flow and protecting the surrounding area from potential inundation.

Managed by the Mississippi Department of Environmental Quality, Ellison Creek Watershed Structure 3 Dam is regulated, permitted, inspected, and enforced to ensure its safety and functionality. While it has a low hazard potential and a moderate risk assessment, the dam has not been rated for its condition. Despite being uncontrolled, the spillway type and outlet gates help to manage water levels during periods of high discharge. As a key component of the local water resource infrastructure, this dam contributes to the overall resilience of the region against flooding events.

As water resource and climate enthusiasts, understanding the significance of structures like Ellison Creek Watershed Structure 3 Dam is essential for appreciating the interconnectedness of water management and environmental protection. With its purpose-driven design and regulatory oversight, this dam exemplifies the balance between flood risk reduction and ecosystem preservation. By recognizing the role of such structures in maintaining water security and resilience in the face of changing climate conditions, we can work towards sustainable water resource management practices for the future.

Year Completed

1961

Dam Height

19

River Or Stream

ELLISON CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Drainage Area

0.86

Nid Storage

377

Outlet Gates

Uncontrolled

Hazard Potential

Low

Foundations

Soil

Nid Height

19
       
Seasonal Comparison

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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.