Josiah Hester Lake Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Josiah Hester Lake Dam, located in Franklin, Mississippi, is a privately owned structure used primarily for recreation purposes.


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Summary

This earth dam, with a height of 12 feet and a storage capacity of 50 acre-feet, serves as a low hazard potential structure with a moderate risk assessment rating. While the dam is not currently rated for its condition, it is regulated, permitted, inspected, and enforced by the Mississippi Department of Environmental Quality, ensuring its safety and compliance with state regulations.

Managed by the Vicksburg District of the US Army Corps of Engineers, Josiah Hester Lake Dam features an uncontrolled spillway type and does not have any associated locks or outlet gates. Although the dam's construction year and last inspection date are not specified, its risk management measures are classified as moderate. With its picturesque location and recreational purpose, this dam provides both residents and visitors with opportunities for outdoor activities and water-based enjoyment in the Franklin area.

Water resource and climate enthusiasts will appreciate Josiah Hester Lake Dam for its role in providing recreational opportunities while also adhering to state regulations and safety protocols. As a privately owned structure with a low hazard potential, this earth dam offers a glimpse into the efforts taken to manage water resources effectively and responsibly in the state of Mississippi. Its moderate risk assessment underscores the importance of ongoing monitoring and maintenance to ensure the safety and integrity of the dam for all who benefit from its presence.

Dam Height

12

Nid Storage

50

Hazard Potential

Low

Nid Height

12
       
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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.