James Jones Lake Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 10, 2025

James Jones Lake, located in Panola, Mississippi, is a private reservoir constructed in 1972 by the USDA NRCS for flood risk reduction purposes.


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Summary

The earth dam stands at a height of 20 feet, with a hydraulic height of 23 feet, and a length of 500 feet. The reservoir has a maximum storage capacity of 41 acre-feet and covers a surface area of 4.4 acres, serving as a vital water resource in the area.

The dam on James Jones Lake is classified as low hazard potential and is uncontrolled, with a spillway width of 20 feet. The reservoir's drainage area is 0.21 square miles, with a maximum discharge capacity of 276 cubic feet per second. Despite being privately owned, the reservoir plays a crucial role in mitigating flood risks in the region and supports the surrounding ecosystem by providing water for various uses.

Water resource and climate enthusiasts will appreciate the significance of James Jones Lake in managing water levels and preventing flooding in the Panola area. With its moderate risk assessment rating and stone core structure, the reservoir stands as a testament to effective water management practices. As a tributary of Long Creek, the lake contributes to the overall water system in Mississippi, showcasing the importance of sustainable water resource management in the face of changing climate conditions.

Year Completed

1972

Dam Length

500

Dam Height

20

River Or Stream

TRIBUTARY OF LONG CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

4.4

Hydraulic Height

23

Drainage Area

0.21

Nid Storage

41

Outlet Gates

Uncontrolled

Hazard Potential

Low

Foundations

Soil

Nid Height

23
       
Seasonal Comparison

Weather Forecast

Dam Data Reference

Condition Assessment

Satisfactory
No 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

High
Dams 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.