John Rankin Lock And Dam - West Embankment Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

John Rankin Lock and Dam - West Embankment, also known as Pool D, is a federal-owned structure located in Itawamba County, Mississippi.


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Summary

Completed in 1984 by the US Army Corps of Engineers, this gravity dam on the Tombigbee River serves primarily for navigation purposes and offers recreational opportunities as well. With a structural height of 48 feet and a hydraulic height of 45 feet, the dam spans 1600 feet in length and has a storage capacity of 27,000 acre-feet, contributing to the regulation of water levels and flow in the area.

The dam features a controlled spillway with a width of 78 feet and a single lock measuring 600 feet in length and 110 feet in width. With a significant hazard potential, the facility is subject to regular inspections and risk assessments to ensure its structural integrity and functionality. The US Army Corps of Engineers actively manages dam-related flood risks by monitoring the dam's condition, prioritizing mitigation activities, and collaborating with local emergency managers to develop emergency action plans and evacuation procedures. As part of ongoing risk management efforts, the Corps continually updates the emergency action plan and conducts maintenance and repairs as needed to safeguard the dam and surrounding communities from potential hazards.

In the face of unpredictable weather events and fluctuating water levels, John Rankin Lock and Dam - West Embankment plays a crucial role in managing water flow and mitigating flood risks. By employing proactive measures and engaging with stakeholders, the US Army Corps of Engineers ensures the safety and resilience of the dam, underscoring the importance of effective risk management strategies in safeguarding water resources and climate resilience in the region.

Year Completed

1984

Dam Length

1600

River Or Stream

TOMBIGBEE

Primary Dam Type

Gravity

Surface Area

1992

Length Of Locks

600

Hydraulic Height

45

Drainage Area

379

Nid Storage

27000

Structural Height

48

Hazard Potential

Significant

Nid Height

48
       
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.