Porters Creek #17 Reservoir Report
Nearby: Porters Creek #3 Cub Creek #1
Last Updated: December 6, 2025
Porters Creek #17, also known as Porters Creek Dam 17m, is a state-owned structure located in Hardeman, Tennessee, with a primary purpose of flood risk reduction.
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Summary
Built in 1963 by the USDA NRCS, this earth dam stands at a structural height of 35 feet, with a hydraulic height of 28 feet. The dam spans 1238 feet and has a storage capacity of 1116 acre-feet, serving to protect the surrounding area from potential flooding events along the Porters Creek.
Managed by the Tennessee Safe Dams Program, Porters Creek #17 is classified as having a low hazard potential and a satisfactory condition assessment as of May 2019. Despite the moderate risk level of 3, the dam has not undergone any modifications in recent years. While the dam does not feature outlet gates or spillway width, it still plays a crucial role in flood risk reduction for the local community. With its location in Hebron and the surrounding natural landscape, the dam serves as a vital part of the area's water resource and climate management infrastructure.
For water resource and climate enthusiasts, Porters Creek #17 offers a fascinating glimpse into the efforts of state agencies and the USDA NRCS to manage flood risk and protect local communities. With its earth structure and stone core type, the dam represents a blend of engineering and natural materials to create a reliable barrier against potential inundation. As a key element in the broader water management system along Porters Creek, this dam showcases the importance of proactive infrastructure in safeguarding against the impacts of extreme weather events and ensuring the long-term sustainability of water resources in the region.
Year Completed |
1963 |
Dam Length |
1238 |
River Or Stream |
PORTERS CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
59.6 |
Hydraulic Height |
28 |
Drainage Area |
0.98 |
Nid Storage |
1116 |
Structural Height |
35 |
Outlet Gates |
None |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Soil |
Nid Height |
35 |
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 |
Middle Fork Forked Deer River Near Fairview
|
164cfs |
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 #17