VICKSBURG — The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers Vicksburg District (USACE-MVK) continues to advance interim risk reduction measures at Arkabutla Dam in DeSoto and Tate counties in northwest Mississippi.
Contractor Frontier Services Inc. began construction and equipment mobilization in early May.
Currently, drill pads are being installed for piezometers, automated instruments used for monitoring groundwater pressure. Relief wells, which act like valves to relieve the water pressure, allow excess water to be diverted safely and serve to prevent sand boils, are scheduled to follow. The additional piezometers increase the USACE-MVK’s monitoring ability by sending data hourly to the technical team, allowing them to analyze conditions in real time.
"Safety remains a top priority to the USACE Vicksburg District. Lake staff and additional personnel are vigilantly monitoring the situation at Arkabutla Dam for any changes," according to a statement.
U.S. Highway 51 Landing provides boating access into the Coldwater River above Arkabutla Dam and will remain the only open boat ramp at Arkabutla Lake. Camping and other recreational use of Arkabutla Lake area remain open, except for day use and fee use areas directly downstream of the dam.
In May 2023, the USACE issued a potential dam breach watch for Arkabutla Dam after observing signs of distress. It was emphasized at the time that a dam breach was not imminent.
