Lake Columbia Dam Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 13, 2025
Lake Columbia Dam in Marion, Mississippi, is a state-regulated structure owned by the Mississippi Department of Environmental Quality.
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Summary
The dam serves primarily for recreation purposes and is classified as an Earth dam with a buttress core type, standing at a height of 20 feet. With a storage capacity of 990 acre-feet and a surface area of 96 acres, the dam poses a low hazard potential and has not been rated for its condition assessment.
Located in the Vicksburg District, Lake Columbia Dam has an uncontrolled spillway type and a moderate risk classification. While the exact year of completion is not specified, the dam has not been modified in recent years. It is important to note that the dam does not have associated inspection dates, emergency action plans, or inundation maps prepared, highlighting a need for improved risk management measures.
For water resource and climate enthusiasts, Lake Columbia Dam presents an intriguing case study of a recreational dam in Mississippi with regulatory oversight by the state authorities. The dam's structure and features provide insight into dam safety and risk management considerations, showcasing the importance of regular inspections, emergency preparedness, and adherence to regulatory guidelines. As a low-hazard dam with moderate risk, there is an opportunity for stakeholders to enhance risk assessment and management strategies to ensure the safety and integrity of Lake Columbia Dam for future generations.
Dam Height |
20 |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
96 |
Nid Storage |
990 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Nid Height |
20 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Pearl River Nr Columbia
|
1870cfs |
Bouie Creek Nr Hattiesburg
|
162cfs |
Pearl River Near Bogalusa
|
2960cfs |
Okatoma Creek At Sanford
|
122cfs |
Leaf River At Hattiesburg
|
758cfs |
Bogue Chitto Nr Tylertown
|
345cfs |
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.
Lake Columbia Dam