Elder Lake Dam Reservoir Report
Nearby: Cox Lake Number 2 Dam Eaton Lake Dam
Last Updated: December 6, 2025
Elder Lake Dam in Prentiss, Mississippi, is a privately owned structure regulated by the Mississippi Department of Environmental Quality.
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Summary
The dam primarily serves for recreational purposes, with a storage capacity of 220 acre-feet. The dam, with a height of 20 feet, is classified as an earth dam with a buttress core type.
Despite being labeled as having low hazard potential and a moderate risk assessment, the condition of Elder Lake Dam has not been officially rated. The dam does not have an Emergency Action Plan (EAP) in place, and there is limited information available on its inspection history. With its uncontrolled spillway type and lack of outlet gates, there are concerns about the dam's ability to manage water discharge effectively during periods of high flow.
For water resource and climate enthusiasts, Elder Lake Dam presents an intriguing case study in dam safety and regulation. The structure's unique design features and lack of comprehensive risk management measures raise questions about its resilience in the face of potential emergencies or extreme weather events. As efforts continue to monitor and assess the condition of Elder Lake Dam, it serves as a reminder of the importance of proactive maintenance and monitoring for the safety of both the surrounding community and the environment.
Dam Height |
20 |
Nid Storage |
220 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Nid Height |
20 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Twentymile Creek Nr Guntown
|
23cfs |
Red Bud Creek Nr Moores Mill
|
12cfs |
Cummings Creek Nr Fulton
|
43cfs |
Tombigbee River Nr Fulton
|
180cfs |
Town Creek At Eason Boulevard At Tupelo
|
65cfs |
Hatchie River Near Walnut
|
153cfs |
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.
Elder Lake Dam