Lake Hazle Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 6, 2025

Lake Hazle Dam, located in Hazlehurst, Mississippi, is a vital water resource managed by the local government for recreational purposes.


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Summary

Built in 1925, this earth dam stands at a height of 29 feet and spans 528 feet, with a storage capacity of 375 acre-feet. It is situated on Johnson Creek, a tributary of Jones Creek, and is regulated by the Mississippi Department of Environmental Quality.

Despite its importance for recreation, Lake Hazle Dam poses a high hazard potential and has been assessed as unsatisfactory in condition, with a moderate risk level. The dam lacks a controlled spillway and outlet gates, highlighting the need for regular inspections and maintenance to ensure its safety and longevity. The last inspection in October 2020 raised concerns about its structural integrity and emergency preparedness.

For water resource and climate enthusiasts, Lake Hazle Dam serves as a critical infrastructure that requires ongoing attention and monitoring to mitigate potential risks and ensure public safety. Its location in Copiah County, Mississippi, underscores the importance of proactive measures to address any vulnerabilities and safeguard this key water feature for the community's enjoyment and well-being.

Year Completed

1925

Dam Length

528

Dam Height

29

River Or Stream

JOHNSON CREEK TRIB OF JONES CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

20.1

Hydraulic Height

15

Drainage Area

0.8

Nid Storage

375

Outlet Gates

None

Hazard Potential

High

Nid Height

29
       
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.