Porters Creek #3 Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 6, 2025
Porters Creek #3, also known as Porters Creek Lake Dam 3, is a state-owned structure located in Hardeman, Tennessee.
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Summary
Built in 1906 by the USDA NRCS, this earth dam stands at a height of 27 feet and serves the primary purpose of flood risk reduction along the Dry Branch river or stream. With a storage capacity of 952 acre-feet and a surface area of 30.3 acres, this dam plays a crucial role in managing water resources in the region.
Managed by the Tennessee Safe Dams Program, Porters Creek #3 has a significant hazard potential but is currently in a satisfactory condition as of the last inspection in May 2019. It is regularly inspected every two years to ensure its structural integrity and safety. While the dam does not have outlet gates or a controlled spillway, it still effectively mitigates flood risks for the surrounding area. Overall, Porters Creek #3 presents a moderate risk level and is an essential piece of infrastructure for water resource management and climate resilience in the region.
For water resource and climate enthusiasts, Porters Creek #3 offers a fascinating example of how dams can play a vital role in flood risk reduction and water management. Its history, design, and maintenance practices provide valuable insights into the complex interplay between infrastructure, natural resources, and climate challenges. By understanding and appreciating the importance of structures like Porters Creek #3, enthusiasts can gain a deeper appreciation for the efforts made to safeguard communities and ecosystems from the impacts of extreme weather events and changing environmental conditions.
Year Completed |
1906 |
Dam Length |
1208 |
River Or Stream |
DRY BRANCH |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
30.3 |
Hydraulic Height |
13.5 |
Drainage Area |
2.25 |
Nid Storage |
952 |
Structural Height |
27 |
Outlet Gates |
None |
Hazard Potential |
Significant |
Foundations |
Soil |
Nid Height |
27 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Hatchie River At Bolivar
|
933cfs |
Hatchie River Near Walnut
|
172cfs |
Wolf River At Lagrange
|
223cfs |
Wolf River At Rossville
|
508cfs |
Horse Creek Near Savannah
|
83cfs |
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.
T W Coan Pond Dam