Bentonia Watershed Structure 2 Dam Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 11, 2025
Bentonia Watershed Structure 2 Dam, also known as Este's Lake, is a local government-owned structure nestled in the heart of Mississippi's Yazoo County.
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Summary
Built in 1963 by USDA NRCS, this earth dam stands at a height of 32 feet and boasts a storage capacity of 330 acre-feet. Its primary purpose is flood risk reduction along the Sandy Creek, providing vital protection to the surrounding community of Bentonia.
This low-hazard dam is regulated and inspected by the Mississippi Department of Environmental Quality, ensuring its safety and functionality for the region. With a moderate risk assessment score of 3, the dam has not been rated for condition assessment, but it continues to serve its intended purpose effectively. Despite its uncontrolled spillway and outlet gates, the Bentonia Watershed Structure 2 Dam remains a critical asset in managing water resources in the area.
Enthusiasts of water resources and climate will appreciate the significance of this structure in mitigating flood risks and safeguarding the local environment. With its historical significance and ongoing role in water management, the Bentonia Watershed Structure 2 Dam stands as a testament to the importance of sustainable infrastructure in a changing climate.
Year Completed |
1963 |
Dam Height |
32 |
River Or Stream |
SANDY CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Drainage Area |
1.93 |
Nid Storage |
330 |
Outlet Gates |
Uncontrolled |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Soil |
Nid Height |
32 |
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 2 Dam