George Harrell Lake Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

George Harrell Lake Dam, located in Natchez, Mississippi, was completed in 1955 and is primarily used for recreation purposes.


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Summary

This earth dam, with a height of 12 feet, was designed by the USDA NRCS and is regulated by the Mississippi Department of Environmental Quality. The dam has a low hazard potential and is currently rated as not assessed for its condition.

The dam's reservoir has a storage capacity of 90 acre-feet and is situated on the TR- Coles Creek North Fork river or stream. It features an uncontrolled spillway and outlet gates, with no associated locks. The risk assessment for the dam is moderate, and it is not under the jurisdiction of the US Army Corps of Engineers. Despite its age, the dam continues to provide recreational opportunities for the local community and visitors alike.

Overall, George Harrell Lake Dam serves as a vital water resource for the area, offering a tranquil setting for outdoor activities while maintaining a moderate level of risk management. With its historical significance and ongoing recreational value, the dam remains an essential part of the water infrastructure in Jefferson, Mississippi. Its design and construction by the USDA NRCS showcase a commitment to sustainable water management practices in the region.

Year Completed

1955

Dam Height

12

River Or Stream

TR- COLES CREEK N FORK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Nid Storage

90

Outlet Gates

Uncontrolled

Hazard Potential

Low

Foundations

Soil

Nid Height

12
       
Seasonal Comparison

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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.