Frank Cauthen Lake Dam Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 6, 2025
Frank Cauthen Lake Dam in Madison, Mississippi, is a privately owned structure that serves primarily for recreation purposes.
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Summary
The dam, with a height of 12 feet, has a storage capacity of 50 acre-feet and is classified as an earth dam with buttress core types. The dam is regulated by the Mississippi Department of Environmental Quality and is subject to state permitting, inspection, and enforcement.
Despite being classified with a low hazard potential, the dam is considered to have a moderate risk level. While the condition assessment is currently not rated, the structure has not been modified in recent years. The dam features an uncontrolled spillway and does not have any associated locks. The emergency action plan status, inundation maps, and risk management measures for the dam are not provided in the data.
Overall, Frank Cauthen Lake Dam presents an interesting case study for water resource and climate enthusiasts due to its unique design, purpose, and regulatory oversight. The moderate risk level of the dam, coupled with the lack of certain emergency preparedness measures, highlights the importance of ongoing monitoring and maintenance to ensure the safety and integrity of the structure. As a privately owned dam in a recreational setting, it serves as a reminder of the diverse range of water resource management challenges and responsibilities faced by different stakeholders in the face of changing climate conditions.
Dam Height |
12 |
Nid Storage |
50 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Nid Height |
12 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Yockanookany River Nr Ofahoma
|
96cfs |
Pearl River Nr Lena
|
532cfs |
Harland Creek Nr Howard
|
3340cfs |
Yockanookany River Nr Kosciusko
|
54cfs |
Pearl River Nr Carthage
|
277cfs |
Big Black River At West
|
190cfs |
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.
Frank Cauthen Lake Dam