Porters Creek #7 Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 6, 2025

Porters Creek #7, also known as Porters Creek Lake Dam 7, is a state-owned structure located in Lisbon, Tennessee.


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Summary

Built in 1964 by the USDA NRCS, this earth dam stands at a structural height of 25.5 feet and serves the primary purpose of flood risk reduction along the Moore Branch river or stream. With a storage capacity of 1338 acre-feet and a normal storage level of 126 acre-feet, this dam plays a crucial role in managing water levels in the area.

Despite its satisfactory condition assessment as of May 2019, Porters Creek #7 poses a significant hazard potential, indicating the need for regular inspections and risk management measures. The dam has a hydraulic height of 12 feet and a spillway type of uncontrolled, with no outlet gates for water release. The surrounding Hardeman County community relies on the proper functioning of this dam to mitigate flood risks and ensure water resource sustainability in the region.

As part of the Tennessee Safe Dams Program, Porters Creek #7 is subject to state regulation, inspection, and enforcement to uphold safety standards and protect downstream communities. Its moderate risk assessment rating highlights the importance of ongoing monitoring and maintenance to prevent potential hazards. Water resource and climate enthusiasts can appreciate the vital role that this dam plays in safeguarding local ecosystems and communities from the impacts of extreme weather events and flooding.

Year Completed

1964

Dam Length

1065

River Or Stream

MOORE BRANCH

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

39.7

Hydraulic Height

12

Drainage Area

3.08

Nid Storage

1338

Structural Height

25.5

Outlet Gates

None

Hazard Potential

Significant

Foundations

Soil

Nid Height

26
       
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.