Bluff Lake Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 6, 2025

Bluff Lake Dam, located in Noxubee, Mississippi, is a Federal-owned structure managed by the US Fish and Wildlife Service.


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Summary

Completed in 1960, this Earth-type dam stands at 17 feet in height and spans 11,690 feet in length, creating a Fish and Wildlife Pond with a storage capacity of 10,531 acre-feet. The dam sits on Oktoc Creek and serves as a vital resource for water management in the region.

Over the years, Bluff Lake Dam has undergone several modifications to enhance its hydraulic, structural, and mechanical systems, with the most recent upgrades occurring in 2002 and 2003. Despite its low hazard potential and fair condition assessment, the dam is inspected every five years to ensure its safety and functionality. With a maximum discharge capacity of 7,745 cubic feet per second, the dam plays a crucial role in flood control and environmental conservation efforts in the area.

As a key component of the Vicksburg District's water infrastructure, Bluff Lake Dam not only provides essential water storage for wildlife preservation but also contributes to the overall ecological balance of the region. With its long history of service and ongoing maintenance efforts, this dam remains a significant asset for water resource and climate enthusiasts interested in sustainable water management practices.

Years Modified

1980 - Hydraulic, 1980 - Structural, 1985 - Hydraulic, 1985 - Mechanical, 1985 - Structural, 2002 - Structural, 2003 - Structural

Year Completed

1960

Dam Length

11690

Dam Height

17

River Or Stream

OKTOC CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

900

Hydraulic Height

17

Drainage Area

3.8

Nid Storage

10531

Structural Height

17

Outlet Gates

Other Controlled

Hazard Potential

Low

Foundations

Soil

Nid Height

17
       
Seasonal Comparison

Weather Forecast

Dam Data Reference

Condition Assessment

Satisfactory
No 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

High
Dams 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.