John Sherman Lake Dam Reservoir Report
Nearby: Carla Moss Lake Dam Preuss Dam
Last Updated: December 6, 2025
John Sherman Lake Dam in Simpson, Mississippi, is a privately owned structure managed by the Mississippi Department of Environmental Quality.
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Summary
Serving primarily for recreational purposes, this earth dam with a buttress core stands at a height of 15 feet and has a storage capacity of 54 acre-feet. The dam's spillway type is uncontrolled, and it is classified as having a low hazard potential with a moderate risk assessment rating of 3.
Located within the Vicksburg District, John Sherman Lake Dam has not been rated for its condition assessment and does not have an emergency action plan in place. Despite its limited inspection and maintenance history, the dam is considered to meet regulatory guidelines and is under state jurisdiction for permitting, inspection, and enforcement. While it does not have associated structures or significant modifications over the years, the dam remains a focal point for water resource and climate enthusiasts interested in its recreational and environmental impact in the region.
Overall, John Sherman Lake Dam represents a unique blend of private ownership and state regulation in managing a recreational water resource in Mississippi. With its moderate risk assessment and low hazard potential, the dam serves as a crucial infrastructure for both local communities and nature enthusiasts seeking to enjoy the scenic beauty and ecological diversity around the lake. As efforts continue to ensure its safety and compliance with regulatory standards, John Sherman Lake Dam remains a notable landmark in the region's water management landscape.
Dam Height |
15 |
Nid Storage |
54 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Nid Height |
15 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Pearl River Nr Rockport
|
1230cfs |
Pearl River Nr Monticello
|
1640cfs |
Strong River At D`Lo
|
286cfs |
Pearl River At Jackson
|
1180cfs |
Lynch Creek At Jackson
|
1100cfs |
Leaf River Nr Collins
|
349cfs |
Dam Data Reference
Condition Assessment
SatisfactoryNo 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
HighDams 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.
John Sherman Lake Dam