Porters Creek #8 Reservoir Report
Nearby: Porters Creek #9 Porters Creek #15
Last Updated: December 6, 2025
Porters Creek #8, also known as Porters Creek Lake Dam 8, is a state-owned structure located in Hardeman, Tennessee.
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Summary
Built in 1966 by the USDA NRCS, this earth dam stands at a hydraulic height of 11 feet and a structural height of 23.5 feet, with a length of 796 feet. The primary purpose of this dam is flood risk reduction, serving to protect the surrounding area from potential water overflow from Porters Creek.
With a storage capacity of 481 acre-feet, Porters Creek #8 covers a surface area of 13.1 acres and drains a 1.14 square-mile area. Its spillway type is uncontrolled, and it has a significant hazard potential according to the latest inspection in May 2019, which found the dam's condition to be satisfactory. Despite its moderate risk assessment rating, the structure is maintained and regulated by the Tennessee Safe Dams Program to ensure its effectiveness in flood risk reduction for the community of Lisbon.
For water resource and climate enthusiasts, Porters Creek #8 offers a fascinating example of infrastructure designed to manage water flow and protect against potential flooding in the region. Its construction, maintenance, and regulatory oversight by state authorities demonstrate a commitment to safeguarding communities and natural resources from the impacts of extreme weather events. As climate change continues to pose challenges to water resource management, structures like Porters Creek #8 play a crucial role in enhancing resilience and preparedness for future climate-related risks.
Year Completed |
1966 |
Dam Length |
796 |
River Or Stream |
PORTERS CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
13.1 |
Hydraulic Height |
11 |
Drainage Area |
1.14 |
Nid Storage |
481 |
Structural Height |
23.5 |
Outlet Gates |
None |
Hazard Potential |
Significant |
Foundations |
Soil |
Nid Height |
24 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Hatchie River Near Walnut
|
172cfs |
Wolf River At Lagrange
|
223cfs |
Hatchie River At Bolivar
|
933cfs |
Wolf River At Rossville
|
508cfs |
Little Tallahatchie River At Etta
|
220cfs |
Loosahatchie River Near Arlington
|
122cfs |
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.
Porters Creek #8