Otoucalofa Creek Y-15-4 Dam Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 6, 2025
The Otoucalofa Creek Y-15-4 Dam, located in Water Valley, Mississippi, is a crucial structure designed for flood risk reduction along the Shippy Creek.
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Summary
Built in 1994 by the USDA NRCS, this earth dam stands at a height of 25 feet and spans 1017 feet in length. With a storage capacity of 405 acre-feet, it serves as a vital tool in managing water resources in the region, especially during periods of heavy rainfall and potential flooding.
Managed and regulated by the Mississippi Department of Environmental Quality, the Otoucalofa Creek Y-15-4 Dam has a high hazard potential and is inspected every five years to ensure its structural integrity. Despite its high hazard potential, the dam is currently in satisfactory condition, with a moderate risk assessment rating. The dam's primary purpose is flood risk reduction, highlighting its importance in safeguarding the surrounding community and environment from potential water-related disasters.
For water resource and climate enthusiasts, the Otoucalofa Creek Y-15-4 Dam serves as a prime example of effective water management infrastructure in Mississippi. With its controlled spillway and uncontrolled outlet gates, this earth dam plays a vital role in protecting the local area from flooding events. As climate change continues to impact water resources, structures like the Otoucalofa Creek Y-15-4 Dam become increasingly essential in ensuring the resilience and sustainability of our water systems.
Year Completed |
1994 |
Dam Length |
1017 |
Dam Height |
25 |
River Or Stream |
SHIPPY CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
14 |
Drainage Area |
1.19 |
Nid Storage |
405 |
Outlet Gates |
Uncontrolled |
Hazard Potential |
High |
Foundations |
Soil |
Nid Height |
25 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Yocona River Nr Oxford
|
96cfs |
Skuna River At Bruce
|
30cfs |
Otoucalofa Creek Canal Nr Water Valley
|
25cfs |
Little Tallahatchie River At Etta
|
156cfs |
Hotopha Creek Nr Batesville
|
13cfs |
Batupan Bogue At Grenada
|
134cfs |
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.
Otoucalofa Creek Y-15-4 Dam