Big Lake Dam Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 6, 2025
Big Lake Dam, located in Calhoun, Mississippi, is a privately owned structure primarily used for recreation.
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Summary
This Earth dam, completed in 1955, stands at a height of 25.4 feet and spans 600 feet in length along the SHUTISPEAR river. With a storage capacity of 250 acre-feet, the dam serves as a popular spot for outdoor enthusiasts seeking leisure activities in a picturesque setting.
Despite its recreational appeal, Big Lake Dam poses a high hazard potential and has been assessed as unsatisfactory in condition as of May 2019. The dam is state-regulated by the Mississippi Department of Environmental Quality, with regular inspections and enforcement measures in place to ensure public safety. The dam's Emergency Action Plan (EAP) status and risk assessment indicate a moderate risk level, emphasizing the importance of ongoing monitoring and maintenance to mitigate any potential threats.
For water resource and climate enthusiasts, Big Lake Dam provides a fascinating case study in the management of a privately owned recreational structure within a natural environment. With its unique design features, regulatory oversight, and risk assessment considerations, the dam serves as a reminder of the delicate balance between human activity and the preservation of water resources in the face of changing environmental conditions.
Year Completed |
1955 |
Dam Length |
600 |
Dam Height |
25.4 |
River Or Stream |
SHUTISPEAR |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Drainage Area |
0.18 |
Nid Storage |
250 |
Hazard Potential |
High |
Nid Height |
25 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Skuna River At Bruce
|
30cfs |
Batupan Bogue At Grenada
|
134cfs |
Yalobusha River At Grenada
|
3080cfs |
Otoucalofa Creek Canal Nr Water Valley
|
25cfs |
Yocona River Nr Oxford
|
96cfs |
Town Creek Nr Nettleton
|
144cfs |
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.
Big Lake Dam