Cortney Lake Dam Reservoir Report
Nearby: Mcrainey Lake Dam Taylor Lake Dam
Last Updated: January 25, 2026
Cortney Lake Dam, located in Rankin, Mississippi, is a privately owned structure primarily used for recreation purposes.
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Summary
This earth dam, with a buttress core type, stands at a height of 20 feet and has a storage capacity of 192 acre-feet. The dam is regulated by the Mississippi Department of Environmental Quality and is subject to state permitting, inspection, and enforcement.
Despite being categorized as having a low hazard potential, the dam's risk assessment indicates a moderate level of risk (3 out of 5). However, the condition assessment has not been rated, and important emergency preparedness measures such as an Emergency Action Plan (EAP) have not been documented. The dam features an uncontrolled spillway and lacks outlet gates, locks, or associated structures.
For water resource and climate enthusiasts, Cortney Lake Dam presents an intriguing case study in dam management and risk assessment. With its picturesque location and unique design features, the dam serves as a focal point for understanding the balance between recreation, safety, and environmental regulation in the context of water resource management in Mississippi. Further research and evaluation could provide valuable insights into the sustainability and resilience of dams in the face of changing climatic conditions.
Dam Height |
20 |
Nid Storage |
192 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Nid Height |
20 |
Seasonal Comparison
Hourly Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Pearl River At Jackson
|
3660cfs |
Lynch Creek At Jackson
|
752cfs |
Hanging Moss Creek Nr Jackson
|
478cfs |
Strong River At D`Lo
|
179cfs |
Pearl River Nr Rockport
|
3300cfs |
Big Black River Nr Bentonia
|
2360cfs |
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.
Cortney Lake Dam