Reelfootindian Creek #4 Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 14, 2025

Reelfootindian Creek #4, also known as Reelfoot Indian Creek Watershed Dam 4, is a state-regulated earth dam located in Obion, Tennessee.


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Summary

Built in 1990 by the USDA NRCS and David Howe of MCI, this dam serves the primary purpose of flood risk reduction along Cane Creek. With a hydraulic height of 17.8 feet and a structural height of 40.2 feet, it provides a normal storage capacity of 722 acre-feet and a maximum storage of 4299 acre-feet over a surface area of 107.4 acres.

Managed and inspected by the Tennessee Safe Dams Program, Reelfootindian Creek #4 has been deemed to have a significant hazard potential with a satisfactory condition assessment as of October 2019. Despite its moderate risk rating, it plays a crucial role in mitigating flood risks in the area. With no outlet gates and an uncontrolled spillway, this dam is designed to effectively manage water levels in times of high discharge. While it has not undergone any modifications since its completion, regular inspections ensure its continued safety and functionality for the community.

For water resource and climate enthusiasts, Reelfootindian Creek #4 represents a vital infrastructure for flood risk reduction in the region. Its construction and design by the USDA NRCS and David Howe of MCI highlight a collaborative effort to protect the surrounding area from potential inundation. As a regulated state dam, it adheres to inspection and enforcement protocols set forth by the Tennessee Safe Dams Program, ensuring its ongoing ability to manage water levels effectively. Overall, Reelfootindian Creek #4 stands as a significant asset in mitigating flood risks and safeguarding the community against potential hazards.

Year Completed

1990

Dam Length

1986

River Or Stream

CANE CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

107.4

Hydraulic Height

17.8

Drainage Area

5.51

Nid Storage

4299

Structural Height

40.2

Outlet Gates

None

Hazard Potential

Significant

Foundations

Soil

Nid Height

40
       
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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.