Ascalmore Structure Y-17a-01 Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Ascalmore Structure Y-17a-01 Dam, also known as Whitten Dam, is a local government-owned structure located in Tallahatchie, Mississippi.


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Summary

Built in 1963 by the USDA NRCS, this earth dam stands at a height of 36 feet and serves the primary purpose of flood risk reduction along Ascalmore Creek. With a storage capacity of 4637 acre-feet and a drainage area of 10.48 square miles, this dam plays a crucial role in managing water resources in the region.

The dam's hazard potential is classified as high, but its condition assessment is rated as fair. Regular inspections and maintenance ensure its structural integrity and readiness for flood events. The Mississippi Department of Environmental Quality oversees the state regulation, permitting, inspection, and enforcement of this dam, ensuring compliance with safety standards. While the risk assessment indicates a moderate level of risk, the dam is equipped with uncontrolled spillways and outlet gates to manage water flow during extreme conditions.

For water resource and climate enthusiasts, Ascalmore Structure Y-17a-01 Dam represents a vital infrastructure for flood control in the region. Its design, construction, and regulatory oversight highlight the importance of sustainable water management practices to mitigate risks and ensure the safety of surrounding communities. As climate change continues to impact water resources, structures like this dam play a crucial role in adapting to changing conditions and protecting against potential hazards.

Year Completed

1963

Dam Height

36

River Or Stream

ASCALMORE CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Drainage Area

10.48

Nid Storage

4637

Outlet Gates

Uncontrolled

Hazard Potential

High

Foundations

Soil

Nid Height

36
       
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.