Marathon Lake Reservoir Report
Nearby: Mccormick Lake O T Gilbert Pond Dam
Last Updated: December 6, 2025
Marathon Lake, located in Smith County, Mississippi, is a federal-owned reservoir primarily used for fish and wildlife management.
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Summary
Managed by the Forest Service, this Earth type dam was completed in 1962 and boasts a maximum storage capacity of 643 acre-feet. The dam stands at a height of 20 feet, with a spillway designed for controlled discharge up to 800 cubic feet per second.
Despite its low hazard potential, Marathon Lake is considered to have a very high risk due to its location and structural characteristics. The dam is inspected and regulated by the Forest Service, ensuring safe operation and maintenance. The reservoir serves as a recreational area in addition to its primary purpose, offering visitors the opportunity to enjoy the natural beauty of the surrounding area and engage in fishing and wildlife viewing activities. For water resource and climate enthusiasts, Marathon Lake offers a fascinating glimpse into the intersection of environmental conservation and recreational use of water resources.
Year Completed |
1962 |
Dam Length |
1620 |
Dam Height |
20 |
River Or Stream |
ICHUSA CR |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Hydraulic Height |
14 |
Drainage Area |
1 |
Nid Storage |
643 |
Structural Height |
20 |
Outlet Gates |
Slide (sluice gate) |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Nid Height |
20 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Tallahala Creek At Waldrup
|
164cfs |
South Canal Tuscolameta Creek Nr Walnut Grove
|
8cfs |
Tuscolameta Creek At Walnut Grove
|
401cfs |
Chunky River Nr Chunky
|
301cfs |
Chickasawhay River At Enterprise
|
546cfs |
Leaf River Nr Collins
|
349cfs |
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.
Marathon Lake