Cleary Lake Dam, located in Rankin, Mississippi, is a privately owned structure that serves as a vital resource for recreation in the area.
Wind
Humidity
Built in 1950, this earth dam stands at a height of 13.5 feet and spans a length of 430 feet, creating a reservoir with a storage capacity of 174 acre-feet. The dam is situated on Hawkins Branch, a tributary that contributes to a drainage area of 0.14 square miles.
Despite its primary purpose for recreation, Cleary Lake Dam is classified as having a high hazard potential, with a fair condition assessment as of March 2020. The dam features an uncontrolled spillway and does not have outlet gates. Regular inspections are conducted, with the last one taking place in September 2020, indicating a 5-year inspection frequency. The dam is regulated by the Mississippi Department of Environmental Quality and is subject to state permitting, inspection, and enforcement.
Water resource and climate enthusiasts will find Cleary Lake Dam to be a noteworthy structure in Mississippi, offering both recreational opportunities and a critical component of water management in the region. Its history, design, and management provide valuable insights into the intersection of human infrastructure with natural resources, highlighting the importance of careful oversight and maintenance to ensure the safety and sustainability of water-related structures.
Year Completed |
1950 |
Dam Length |
430 |
Dam Height |
13.5 |
River Or Stream |
HAWKINS BRANCH |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
17.2 |
Drainage Area |
0.14 |
Nid Storage |
174 |
Outlet Gates |
None |
Hazard Potential |
High |
Nid Height |
14 |
Pearl River At Jackson
|
362cfs |
Lynch Creek At Jackson
|
1100cfs |
Hanging Moss Creek Nr Jackson
|
356cfs |
Strong River At D`Lo
|
108cfs |
Pearl River Nr Rockport
|
775cfs |
Big Black River Nr Bentonia
|
392cfs |