Okatibbee Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 6, 2025

Okatibbee Dam, also known as Okatibbee Lake, is a federally-owned structure located in Meridian, Mississippi.


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Summary

Completed in 1968 by the US Army Corps of Engineers, the dam serves primarily for flood risk reduction, but also supports recreation and water supply purposes. The gravity-type dam stands at a hydraulic height of 67 feet and spans 6,620 feet, with a maximum storage capacity of 59,481 acre-feet and a surface area of 3,800 acres.

Despite its high hazard potential, Okatibbee Dam is equipped with an uncontrolled spillway and uncontrolled outlet gates to manage water levels. The US Army Corps of Engineers actively monitors and assesses the dam's condition and implements risk management measures to mitigate potential flood risks. Regular maintenance and repairs are conducted to ensure the dam's structural integrity, while emergency action plans are regularly updated to prepare for any potential dam-related emergencies.

Water resource and climate enthusiasts will appreciate the proactive approach taken by the US Army Corps of Engineers in safeguarding Okatibbee Dam and the surrounding area from the impacts of severe weather events and flooding. The ongoing efforts to manage flood risks and engage with local emergency managers demonstrate a commitment to ensuring the safety and resilience of this critical infrastructure.

Year Completed

1968

Dam Length

6620

River Or Stream

Okatibbee Creek

Primary Dam Type

Gravity

Surface Area

3800

Hydraulic Height

67

Drainage Area

153

Nid Storage

46538

Structural Height

72

Outlet Gates

Uncontrolled

Hazard Potential

High

Nid Height

72
       
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.