Joe Welch Lake Dam Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 6, 2025
Joe Welch Lake Dam, located in Jones, Mississippi, is a privately owned structure designed by the USDA NRCS and regulated by the Mississippi Department of Environmental Quality.
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Summary
Completed in 1968, this Earth-type dam stands at a height of 20 feet and serves primarily for recreational purposes, with a storage capacity of 140 acre-feet. The dam is situated on TR- HORSE CREEK and is under the jurisdiction of the Vicksburg District.
With a low hazard potential and a moderate risk assessment rating, Joe Welch Lake Dam is not currently rated for its condition but is inspected, permitted, and regulated by state authorities. The dam features an uncontrolled spillway and outlet gates, and while it has not been modified in recent years, it remains a key structure for water resource management in the area. Overall, Joe Welch Lake Dam presents a unique blend of recreational and regulatory functions, making it a focal point for water resource and climate enthusiasts interested in dam infrastructure in Mississippi.
Year Completed |
1968 |
Dam Height |
20 |
River Or Stream |
TR- HORSE CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Nid Storage |
140 |
Outlet Gates |
Uncontrolled |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Soil |
Nid Height |
20 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Tallahala Creek At Laurel
|
17cfs |
Leaf River Nr Collins
|
349cfs |
Tallahala Creek At Waldrup
|
164cfs |
Okatoma Creek At Sanford
|
354cfs |
Bouie Creek Nr Hattiesburg
|
481cfs |
Bogue Homo Nr Richton
|
556cfs |
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.
Joe Welch Lake Dam