W I Kitchens Lake Dam Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 5, 2025
W I Kitchens Lake Dam, located in Runnelstown, Mississippi, is a privately owned earth dam designed by USDA NRCS and completed in 1965.
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Summary
This recreational dam on TR- Bear Creek stands at a height of 16 feet and has a storage capacity of 144 acre-feet. Despite being classified as having low hazard potential and a moderate risk assessment, the dam's condition is currently listed as "Not Rated" with no recent inspection data available.
Managed by the Mississippi Department of Environmental Quality, this dam is regulated and permitted by the state, ensuring that it meets safety standards for its primary purpose of recreation. The spillway, outlet gates, and dam design reflect the collaborative efforts of various agencies, including the Natural Resources Conservation Service. While the dam itself has not undergone recent modifications or inspections, its overall risk assessment suggests a need for ongoing monitoring and risk management measures.
For water resource and climate enthusiasts, W I Kitchens Lake Dam serves as an interesting case study in dam infrastructure and management. Its location in Jones County, Mississippi, and association with the Vicksburg District of the US Army Corps of Engineers adds to its significance in the region. As climate change continues to impact water resources, understanding the condition and regulation of dams like W I Kitchens Lake Dam becomes increasingly important for ensuring both public safety and environmental stewardship in the face of evolving challenges.
Year Completed |
1965 |
Dam Height |
16 |
River Or Stream |
TR- BEAR CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Nid Storage |
144 |
Outlet Gates |
Uncontrolled |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Soil |
Nid Height |
16 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Tallahala Creek At Laurel
|
17cfs |
Bogue Homo Nr Richton
|
556cfs |
Leaf River At Hattiesburg
|
1360cfs |
Tallahala Creek Nr Runnelstown
|
93cfs |
Okatoma Creek At Sanford
|
541cfs |
Bouie Creek Nr Hattiesburg
|
438cfs |
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.
W I Kitchens Lake Dam