Ayer Watershed Structure Ut-4-1 Dam Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 5, 2025
The Ayer Watershed Structure Ut-4-1 Dam, located in Myrtle, Mississippi, is a crucial piece of infrastructure designed by the USDA NRCS to primarily address flood risk reduction in the area.
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Summary
Completed in 1959, this earth dam stands at a height of 26 feet and has a storage capacity of 334 acre-feet. Despite its low hazard potential, the dam is regulated and inspected by the Mississippi Department of Environmental Quality to ensure its safety and effectiveness.
With a drainage area of 1.46 square miles, the Ayer Dam plays a vital role in managing the flow of the TR-LTALLAHATCHIE RIVER; AYER watershed, especially during periods of heavy rainfall or severe weather. While the dam is currently rated as "Not Rated" in terms of its condition assessment, it is important to note that ongoing risk management measures are in place to address any potential issues that may arise. The dam's emergency action plan and risk assessment indicate a moderate level of risk (3), highlighting the need for continued monitoring and maintenance to safeguard the surrounding communities and water resources.
In the event of an emergency, it is essential for stakeholders to have updated and effective emergency contact information and protocols in place. While the Ayer Watershed Structure Ut-4-1 Dam currently lacks certain emergency preparedness measures such as an updated EAP and inundation maps, its overall risk management approach and regulatory oversight suggest a commitment to ensuring public safety and water resource protection in the area. As climate change continues to impact water resources and weather patterns, the Ayer Dam remains a key component of flood risk reduction efforts in Union, Mississippi.
Year Completed |
1959 |
Dam Height |
26 |
River Or Stream |
TR- LTALLAHATCHIE RIVER; AYER |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Drainage Area |
1.46 |
Nid Storage |
334 |
Outlet Gates |
Uncontrolled |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Soil |
Nid Height |
26 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Little Tallahatchie River At Etta
|
156cfs |
Hatchie River Near Walnut
|
153cfs |
Wolf River At Lagrange
|
227cfs |
Yocona River Nr Oxford
|
96cfs |
Twentymile Creek Nr Guntown
|
23cfs |
Town Creek At Eason Boulevard At Tupelo
|
65cfs |
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.
Ayer Watershed Structure Ut-4-1 Dam