Bentonia Watershed Structure 4 Dam Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 11, 2025
The Bentonia Watershed Structure 4 Dam, also known as Terrell's Lake, is a local government-owned earth dam located in Yazoo, Mississippi, on Little Creek.
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Summary
Built in 1963 by the USDA NRCS, this dam stands at a height of 22 feet and has a storage capacity of 174 acre-feet. The primary purpose of this structure is flood risk reduction, serving as a vital resource for the community in mitigating potential flooding events in the area.
Managed by the Mississippi Department of Environmental Quality, the Bentonia Watershed Structure 4 Dam is regulated, permitted, inspected, and enforced by state authorities. Despite being classified as having a low hazard potential, the risk assessment for this dam is moderate. With uncontrolled spillways and outlet gates, this structure plays a crucial role in managing water flows and reducing flood risks in the region. As a key component of water resource management in the area, it is essential for enthusiasts and stakeholders to stay informed about its condition and regulatory status to ensure the safety and sustainability of the surrounding environment.
Overall, the Bentonia Watershed Structure 4 Dam is a significant infrastructure project that contributes to flood risk reduction efforts in the region. With a history dating back to the early 1960s, this earth dam continues to serve its purpose effectively, thanks to ongoing state oversight and inspection. For water resource and climate enthusiasts, understanding the design, purpose, and regulatory framework of this dam provides valuable insight into the management of water resources and the importance of infrastructure in mitigating natural disasters like flooding.
Year Completed |
1963 |
Dam Height |
22 |
River Or Stream |
LITTLE CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Drainage Area |
0.45 |
Nid Storage |
174 |
Outlet Gates |
Uncontrolled |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Soil |
Nid Height |
22 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Big Black River Nr Bentonia
|
392cfs |
Hanging Moss Creek Nr Jackson
|
356cfs |
Big Black River Nr Bovina
|
520cfs |
Lynch Creek At Jackson
|
1100cfs |
Pearl River At Jackson
|
362cfs |
Harland Creek Nr Howard
|
3340cfs |
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.
Bentonia Watershed Structure 4 Dam