Ellison Creek Watershed Structure 7 Dam Reservoir Report
Nearby: Ms04456 Lake Dam Pepper Lake Dam
Last Updated: December 7, 2025
Ellison Creek Watershed Structure 7 Dam, also known as Nichols Lake, is a local government-owned structure located in Yazoo, Mississippi.
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Summary
Built in 1961 by the USDA NRCS, this earth-type dam serves the primary purpose of flood risk reduction in the Ellison Creek area. With a height of 22 feet and a storage capacity of 793 acre-feet, the dam is regulated and inspected by the Mississippi Department of Environmental Quality to ensure its safety and functionality.
The dam's spillway is uncontrolled, and it is classified as having a low hazard potential with a moderate risk assessment rating. Despite not being rated for its condition, the dam has not undergone any significant modifications since its completion. The surrounding area, including the city of Edwards, may benefit from the dam's flood protection capabilities, as it helps manage water flow in Ellison Creek during periods of heavy rainfall.
Water resource and climate enthusiasts interested in the management and regulation of dams in Mississippi will find Ellison Creek Watershed Structure 7 Dam a fascinating subject. With its historical significance, engineering design, and impact on flood risk reduction in the region, this dam serves as a vital piece of infrastructure that plays a crucial role in water resource management and environmental protection efforts.
Year Completed |
1961 |
Dam Height |
22 |
River Or Stream |
ELLISON CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Drainage Area |
1.84 |
Nid Storage |
793 |
Outlet Gates |
Uncontrolled |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Soil |
Nid Height |
22 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Harland Creek Nr Howard
|
3340cfs |
Big Black River Nr Bentonia
|
514cfs |
Yockanookany River Nr Ofahoma
|
86cfs |
Pearl River Nr Lena
|
624cfs |
Hanging Moss Creek Nr Jackson
|
356cfs |
Big Black River At West
|
176cfs |
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.
Ellison Creek Watershed Structure 7 Dam