Vail Lake Dam Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 6, 2025
Vail Lake Dam in Clay, Mississippi, is a private-owned structure primarily designated for recreation purposes.
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Summary
The dam, with a height of 12 feet, stores 234 acre-feet of water, making it a vital resource in the area. While its hazard potential is rated as low, the risk assessment suggests a moderate level of risk (3), indicating the importance of proper management and maintenance.
Managed by the Mississippi Department of Environmental Quality, Vail Lake Dam is regulated, permitted, inspected, and enforced by the state authorities. Its spillway type is categorized as uncontrolled, emphasizing the need for vigilance in managing water levels during periods of high discharge. Despite not being rated for its current condition, the dam serves as a crucial element in the local ecosystem, providing recreational opportunities and contributing to the overall water resource management in the region.
Located within the Vicksburg District, Vail Lake Dam offers a serene setting for outdoor enthusiasts and climate advocates to appreciate the intersection of human-made structures and natural surroundings. With its earth and buttress core types, the dam stands as a testament to sustainable water infrastructure development, highlighting the balance between environmental conservation and recreational use. As efforts continue to ensure the safety and functionality of the dam, it remains a key feature in the water resource landscape of Mississippi, blending utility with natural beauty for all to enjoy.
Dam Height |
12 |
Nid Storage |
234 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Nid Height |
12 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Catalpa Creek At Mayhew
|
2940cfs |
Tombigbee River At Stennis Lock And Dam
|
2610cfs |
Tombigbee River At Aberdeen Lock And Dam
|
121cfs |
Luxapallila Creek Nr Columbus
|
525cfs |
Tombigbee River Nr Amory
|
3330cfs |
Skuna River At Bruce
|
71cfs |
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.
Vail Lake Dam