Martin Lake Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 11, 2025

Martin Lake Dam, also known as Billups Dam, is a private dam located in Madison, Mississippi.


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Summary

Managed by the USDA NRCS, this earth dam serves primarily for recreation purposes, with a structural height of 17 feet and a length of 1400 feet. Completed in 2013, the dam has a storage capacity of 120 acre-feet and a normal storage level of 58 acre-feet. It sits on an unnamed river or stream in the Vicksburg District and is regulated by the Mississippi Department of Environmental Quality.

Despite being classified as having a low hazard potential, the dam's risk assessment is moderate. It has an uncontrolled spillway and outlet gates, with no associated locks. The condition assessment is currently not rated, and there are no emergency action plans in place. However, the dam has undergone state inspections, permitting, and enforcement, indicating a commitment to safety and regulatory compliance. With its unique design and purpose, Martin Lake Dam stands as a testament to responsible water resource management in Mississippi.

Enthusiasts of water resources and climate will find Martin Lake Dam an intriguing example of a private dam contributing to both recreational enjoyment and environmental stewardship. Its location in the heart of Mississippi's natural landscape, coupled with its moderate risk assessment and state regulation, make it a noteworthy site for those interested in the intersection of human infrastructure and ecological preservation. The dam's history, design, and ongoing management serve as a case study in balancing the needs of society with the protection of precious water resources in the face of a changing climate.

Year Completed

2013

Dam Length

1400

Dam Height

12

River Or Stream

UNNAMED

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

12

Hydraulic Height

12

Drainage Area

0.11

Nid Storage

120

Structural Height

17

Outlet Gates

Uncontrolled

Hazard Potential

Low

Foundations

Soil

Nid Height

17
       
Seasonal Comparison

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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.