Mcnairycypress Creek #15 Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 5, 2025
Mcnairycypress Creek #15, also known as Mcnairy Cypress Creek W/S Dam 17, is a vital structure located in Selmer, Tennessee, designed by USDA NRCS & HAL PRIDGEON, JR OF PRATHER.THOMAS.CAMPBELL.PRIDGEON.
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Summary
This earth-type dam serves multiple purposes, including flood risk reduction, debris control, and providing a habitat for fish and wildlife in the Sulfur Branch stream. Completed in 1982, this dam has a hydraulic height of 24 feet and a structural height of 29.4 feet, with a storage capacity of 880 acre-feet and a surface area of 35 acres.
Managed by the Tennessee Safe Dams Program, Mcnairycypress Creek #15 has a high hazard potential but is currently in satisfactory condition as of the last inspection in April 2020. With a drainage area of 1.52 square miles, this dam plays a crucial role in mitigating flood risks in the region. Despite its moderate risk rating, the dam has not undergone any modifications in recent years and does not have an Emergency Action Plan (EAP) in place.
Water resource and climate enthusiasts will find Mcnairycypress Creek #15 to be a fascinating example of a well-maintained earth dam that serves both flood control and ecological conservation purposes. Its location in McNairy County, Tennessee, along with its importance in the local water management system, makes it a significant structure worth studying and monitoring for the broader understanding of water resource management and climate resilience efforts in the region.
Year Completed |
1982 |
Dam Length |
655 |
River Or Stream |
SULFUR BRANCH |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
35 |
Hydraulic Height |
24 |
Drainage Area |
1.52 |
Nid Storage |
880 |
Structural Height |
29.4 |
Outlet Gates |
None |
Hazard Potential |
High |
Foundations |
Soil |
Nid Height |
29 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Horse Creek Near Savannah
|
87cfs |
Hatchie River Near Walnut
|
153cfs |
Hatchie River At Bolivar
|
944cfs |
Middle Fork Forked Deer River Near Fairview
|
166cfs |
Wolf River At Lagrange
|
227cfs |
Bear Creek At Bishop
|
4330cfs |
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.
Mcnairycypress Creek #15