Sanderson Lake Dam Reservoir Report
Nearby: Ms06383 Lake Dam Ms06384 Lake Dam
Last Updated: December 5, 2025
Sanderson Lake Dam, located in Richton, Mississippi, is a privately owned structure with a primary purpose of recreation.
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Summary
Built in 1948, this earth-type dam stands at a height of 12 feet and has a storage capacity of 72 acre-feet. The dam is regulated by the Mississippi Department of Environmental Quality and is inspected and enforced regularly to ensure its safety and compliance with state regulations.
The dam, designed by the USDA NRCS, is associated with the Hollis Creek and has an uncontrolled spillway. Despite being rated as having a low hazard potential, the risk assessment for Sanderson Lake Dam is moderate. With its unique design features and historical significance, the dam provides a valuable recreational resource for the local community and serves as a reminder of the importance of water resource management in the face of changing climate conditions. For water resource and climate enthusiasts, Sanderson Lake Dam offers a fascinating case study in dam construction, regulation, and risk management in the state of Mississippi.
Overall, Sanderson Lake Dam is a noteworthy structure that combines elements of natural resource conservation and recreational enjoyment. Its design by the Natural Resources Conservation Service reflects a commitment to sustainability and environmental stewardship. As water resources and climate continue to be key areas of concern, the management and maintenance of dams like Sanderson Lake Dam play a crucial role in ensuring the safety and well-being of communities and ecosystems. By understanding the complexities of dam infrastructure and regulation, enthusiasts can gain valuable insights into the intersection of water resources and climate resilience.
Year Completed |
1948 |
Dam Height |
12 |
River Or Stream |
HOLLIS CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Nid Storage |
72 |
Outlet Gates |
Uncontrolled |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Soil |
Nid Height |
12 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Bogue Homo Nr Richton
|
556cfs |
Chickasawhay River Nr Waynesboro
|
887cfs |
Tallahala Creek At Laurel
|
17cfs |
Tallahala Creek Nr Runnelstown
|
93cfs |
Leaf River Nr New Augusta
|
1590cfs |
Leaf River Nr Mclain
|
1460cfs |
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.
Sanderson Lake Dam