Lake Helen Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 8, 2025

Lake Helen Dam, located in Lauderdale, Mississippi, is a federally owned structure managed by the US Navy for recreational purposes.


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Summary

Built in 1965, this earth dam stands at 25 feet high and spans 600 feet in length, with a maximum storage capacity of 160 acre-feet. The dam overlooks the tranquil TR-WRIGHTS CREEK and serves as a popular spot for outdoor activities such as fishing, boating, and picnicking.

Despite its low hazard potential, Lake Helen Dam's condition assessment is rated as poor, highlighting the need for maintenance and potential repairs. The dam features an uncontrolled spillway and outlet gates, with a maximum discharge capacity of 350 cubic feet per second. The surrounding area boasts a surface area of 23 acres and a drainage area of 0.2 square miles, making it a vital water resource for the local community.

To ensure public safety and environmental protection, the Mississippi Department of Environmental Quality regulates and inspects the dam regularly. While the risk assessment indicates a moderate level of risk, the dam's risk management measures are not specified. With its picturesque setting and recreational opportunities, Lake Helen Dam remains a significant landmark in the region for water resource and climate enthusiasts to explore and appreciate.

Year Completed

1965

Dam Length

600

Dam Height

25

River Or Stream

TR-WRIGHTS CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

23

Hydraulic Height

23

Drainage Area

0.2

Nid Storage

160

Structural Height

14

Outlet Gates

Uncontrolled

Hazard Potential

Low

Foundations

Soil

Nid Height

25
       
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.