Reelfootindian Creek #15 Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 14, 2025

Reelfootindian Creek #15, also known as Reelfoot Indian Creek Dam 15, is a state-owned dam located in Obion, Tennessee.


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Summary

Constructed in 1974 by the USDA NRCS, this earth dam stands at a structural height of 29 feet, with a hydraulic height of 22 feet. It serves the primary purpose of flood risk reduction along the Hamblin Branch river or stream, with a normal storage capacity of 183 acre-feet and a maximum storage of 1094 acre-feet.

The dam, with a length of 1137 feet and a surface area of 42.5 acres, is regulated by the Tennessee Safe Dams Program and undergoes regular inspections, with the last assessment conducted on November 6, 2019, revealing a satisfactory condition. Despite its significant hazard potential, the dam is deemed to have a moderate risk level. While it currently lacks certain emergency preparedness measures like an Emergency Action Plan (EAP) and inundation maps, Reelfootindian Creek #15 continues to play a crucial role in mitigating flood risks in the region and ensuring the safety of nearby communities.

With its strategic location and effective flood risk reduction capabilities, Reelfootindian Creek #15 stands as a testament to successful state-led water resource management efforts in Tennessee. As climate change continues to impact water resources, this dam serves as a vital infrastructure for protecting the surrounding area from potential flooding events. Through ongoing inspections and risk assessments, the dam remains a key component of the state's water resource infrastructure, providing valuable lessons for sustainable water management in the face of evolving climate challenges.

Year Completed

1974

Dam Length

1137

River Or Stream

HAMBLIN BRANCH

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

42.5

Hydraulic Height

22

Drainage Area

2.71

Nid Storage

1094

Structural Height

29

Outlet Gates

None

Hazard Potential

Significant

Foundations

Soil

Nid Height

29
       
Seasonal Comparison

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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.