Montford Lake Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 6, 2025

Montford Lake Dam, located in Macon, Mississippi, was completed in 1965 and is owned and regulated by a private entity.


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Summary

The dam, designed by USDA NRCS, serves primarily for recreational purposes and stands at a height of 12 feet. The dam's core type is buttress, with an earth foundation, and it has a maximum storage capacity of 210 acre-feet.

Despite its low hazard potential, Montford Lake Dam is classified as having a moderate risk level, with a rating of 3. The dam's spillway type is uncontrolled, and it lacks outlet gates, locks, and associated structures. The condition of the dam is not rated, and it has not been assessed for emergency action preparedness or risk management measures. The dam is situated on Little Creek and falls under the jurisdiction of the Mississippi Department of Environmental Quality for regulation, inspection, and enforcement.

Overall, Montford Lake Dam presents an intriguing case study for water resource and climate enthusiasts due to its unique design, historical significance, and regulatory framework. As a privately owned recreational structure with limited federal involvement, the dam offers insights into the challenges and responsibilities faced by non-governmental entities in managing and maintaining critical infrastructure. Its location in Oktibbeha County, Mississippi, adds to the allure of exploring the intersection of water management, environmental protection, and public safety in a diverse and dynamic landscape.

Year Completed

1965

Dam Height

12

River Or Stream

LITTLE CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Nid Storage

210

Outlet Gates

Uncontrolled

Hazard Potential

Low

Foundations

Soil

Nid Height

12
       
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.