Sory And Towery Lake Reservoir Report
Nearby: Crawford Brothers Pond Tirey Lake
Last Updated: December 5, 2025
Sory and Towery Lake, located in Humphreys County, Mississippi, is a private reservoir with a primary purpose other than water supply or flood control.
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Summary
Constructed in 1978 by the USDA NRCS, this Earth dam spans 7920 feet with a height of 8 feet and a maximum storage capacity of 480 acre-feet. The lake is fed by Willis Bayou and has a low hazard potential, with a moderate risk assessment rating.
Although not regulated by the state, Sory and Towery Lake's uncontrolled spillway and outlet gates pose a potential risk in case of emergencies. Despite being in good condition and not currently rated, the dam's risk management measures and emergency action plan status are unknown. With a moderate risk assessment and a history of no inspections, there is room for improvement in ensuring the safety and security of this water resource.
For water resource and climate enthusiasts, Sory and Towery Lake offers a unique opportunity to study a privately owned reservoir in Mississippi. With its historical significance dating back to 1978 and its association with the Natural Resources Conservation Service, this Earth dam presents an interesting case study in dam construction and management. Further research and monitoring may be needed to address potential risks and enhance the resilience of this water storage facility in the face of changing climate patterns.
Year Completed |
1978 |
Dam Length |
7920 |
Dam Height |
8 |
River Or Stream |
WILLIS BAYOU -OS |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Hydraulic Height |
8 |
Nid Storage |
480 |
Outlet Gates |
Uncontrolled |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Soil |
Nid Height |
8 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Bogue Phalia Nr Leland
|
1110cfs |
Big Sunflower River At Sunflower
|
1370cfs |
Abiaca Creek At Cruger
|
44cfs |
Harland Creek Nr Howard
|
3340cfs |
Tallahatchie River At Money
|
6080cfs |
Bayou Macon At Eudora
|
48cfs |
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.
Sory And Towery Lake