Merle Palmer Lake Dam Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 5, 2025
Merle Palmer Lake Dam in Mississippi is a private-owned structure regulated by the state's Department of Environmental Quality.
°F
°F
mph
Wind
%
Humidity
Summary
The dam serves primarily for recreational purposes, with a low hazard potential and a moderate risk assessment rating. Built as an earth dam with a buttress core type, it stands at a height of 12 feet and has a storage capacity of 56 acre-feet.
Located in Pontotoc County, the dam features an uncontrolled spillway and does not have associated locks or outlets. Despite being not rated for its condition assessment, the dam has undergone state inspections and enforcement measures to ensure its safety and functionality. While the risk management measures and emergency preparedness status are not specified, the dam is considered to have a moderate risk level, indicating a need for continued monitoring and maintenance.
With its picturesque surroundings and recreational purpose, Merle Palmer Lake Dam offers a tranquil setting for water resource and climate enthusiasts to explore and appreciate. Its role in providing recreational opportunities while managing water resources underscores the importance of maintaining and regulating dams to ensure safety and sustainability for both the environment and the community.
Dam Height |
12 |
Nid Storage |
56 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Nid Height |
12 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Little Tallahatchie River At Etta
|
156cfs |
Town Creek At Eason Boulevard At Tupelo
|
65cfs |
Yocona River Nr Oxford
|
96cfs |
Skuna River At Bruce
|
30cfs |
Town Creek Nr Nettleton
|
144cfs |
Twentymile Creek Nr Guntown
|
23cfs |
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.
Merle Palmer Lake Dam