Mortimer Lake Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Mortimer Lake in Midnight, Mississippi, is a private water resource managed by the USDA NRCS that has been serving the area since 1978.


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Summary

This Earth dam, standing at 8 feet, holds a maximum storage capacity of 180 acre-feet and is primarily used for purposes beyond flood control or irrigation. Located on Dry Creek Bayou in Humphreys County, Mortimer Lake boasts a spillway width of 2 feet and a low hazard potential, making it a key feature in the local water management system.

Despite its modest size and capacity, Mortimer Lake plays a crucial role in the area's water resource management, with a moderate risk assessment rating. With no regulatory oversight from the state, this privately-owned dam operates without formal inspections or enforcement measures in place. Although its condition is not formally rated, its low hazard potential suggests that it continues to provide essential water storage and control functions for the region, supported by its historical construction and design by the USDA NRCS. For water resource and climate enthusiasts, Mortimer Lake offers a fascinating glimpse into the decentralized and diverse landscape of water infrastructure in the United States.

Year Completed

1978

Dam Length

4578

Dam Height

8

River Or Stream

DRY CREEK BAYOU -OS

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Hydraulic Height

8

Nid Storage

180

Outlet Gates

Uncontrolled

Hazard Potential

Low

Foundations

Soil

Nid Height

8
       
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.