Simpson Legion Lake Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 7, 2025

Simpson Legion Lake Dam, located in Mendenhall, Mississippi, stands as a vital water resource for the region, serving primarily for recreational purposes since its completion in 1950.


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Summary

The dam, classified as an Earth type with a height of 30 feet and a hydraulic height of 22 feet, holds a storage capacity of 1672 acre-feet and covers a surface area of 77 acres. Despite its relatively small drainage area of 4.18 square miles, the dam plays a critical role in managing water flow along Sellers Creek.

Managed by the Mississippi Department of Environmental Quality, Simpson Legion Lake Dam is subject to regular state inspections, ensuring its structural integrity and compliance with safety regulations. The dam's high hazard potential highlights the importance of effective risk management measures and emergency preparedness. The latest inspection in March 2021 reported the dam's condition as satisfactory, but ongoing monitoring and maintenance are crucial to mitigate any potential risks associated with its operation.

With its scenic surroundings and significant impact on the local water resources, Simpson Legion Lake Dam stands as a testament to responsible water management in the face of changing climate conditions. Enthusiasts and stakeholders alike can appreciate the dam's role in providing not only recreational opportunities but also essential water storage and flow regulation for the community.

Year Completed

1950

Dam Length

1100

Dam Height

30

River Or Stream

SELLERS CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

77

Hydraulic Height

22

Drainage Area

4.18

Nid Storage

1672

Outlet Gates

None

Hazard Potential

High

Nid Height

30
       
Seasonal Comparison

Weather Forecast

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.