Reelfootindian Creek #3 Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 14, 2025

Reelfootindian Creek #3, located in Obion, Tennessee, is a state-regulated dam designed by the USDA NRCS and Hal Pridgeon, Jr of Prather.Thomas.Campbell.Pridgeon.


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Summary

Completed in 1981, this earth dam stands at a structural height of 32.3 feet and serves the primary purpose of flood risk reduction along Scawley Creek. With a maximum storage capacity of 758 acre-feet and a normal storage capacity of 167 acre-feet, this dam plays a crucial role in managing water resources in the area.

The dam's condition assessment as of October 2019 was reported as satisfactory, with a significant hazard potential and a moderate risk level. The Tennessee Safe Dams Program oversees the state permitting, inspection, and enforcement of this dam, ensuring its continued safety and functionality. Despite its uncontrolled spillway type, Reelfootindian Creek #3 remains a vital infrastructure for debris control, fish and wildlife pond management, and overall flood risk reduction efforts in the region.

For water resource and climate enthusiasts, Reelfootindian Creek #3 presents an intriguing case study in dam engineering and management. With its unique design features, operational considerations, and regulatory oversight, this dam exemplifies the intersection of human intervention in natural water systems and the importance of sustainable water resource practices in mitigating flood risks and supporting ecosystem health.

Year Completed

1981

Dam Length

740

River Or Stream

SCAWLEY CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

24

Hydraulic Height

17

Drainage Area

1.66

Nid Storage

758

Structural Height

32.3

Outlet Gates

None

Hazard Potential

Significant

Foundations

Soil

Nid Height

32
       
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.