Washington Lake Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 11, 2025

Washington Lake Dam, located in Yazoo, Mississippi, stands as a vital water resource for the region, primarily serving recreational purposes.


°F

°F

mph

Wind

%

Humidity

Summary

This private dam, with a height of 28 feet and a storage capacity of 145 acre-feet, plays a crucial role in the local ecosystem. While the dam's condition assessment is currently labeled as 'Not Rated', its risk assessment indicates a moderate risk level.

Managed by the Mississippi Department of Environmental Quality, Washington Lake Dam is state-regulated, inspected, and enforced, highlighting a commitment to ensuring its safety and functionality. The dam's design, classified as an Earth core type with Buttress foundations, features an uncontrolled spillway for managing water discharge. While the hazard potential is labeled as 'Undetermined', the dam's risk management measures and emergency preparedness status remain unspecified, calling for further evaluation and potential enhancements to mitigate risks and ensure community safety.

As climate change impacts water resources and infrastructure, Washington Lake Dam stands as a crucial asset in the face of evolving environmental challenges. With its strategic location and role in water management, this dam serves as a key focal point for water resource and climate enthusiasts seeking to understand the intricate interplay between human-built structures and natural ecosystems in the context of a changing climate.

Dam Height

28

Drainage Area

0.28

Nid Storage

145

Hazard Potential

Undetermined

Nid Height

28
       
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.