Earl Laird Lake Dam Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 6, 2025
Earl Laird Lake Dam, located in Newton, Mississippi, is a privately owned structure regulated by the Mississippi Department of Environmental Quality.
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Summary
The dam, primarily used for recreation, is classified as an earth dam with a buttress core type, standing at a height of 15 feet with a storage capacity of 80 acre-feet. The spillway type is labeled as "Uncontrolled," indicating potential challenges in managing excess water flow.
Despite being designated as "Undetermined" in terms of hazard potential and "Not Rated" in condition assessment, the dam is considered to have a moderate risk level. This classification underscores the importance of regular inspections and potential risk management measures to ensure the safety and integrity of the structure. The dam does not have an Emergency Action Plan (EAP) in place, suggesting a need for preparedness in the event of unforeseen emergencies.
Overall, Earl Laird Lake Dam serves as a recreational resource in the area, offering opportunities for leisure activities. However, given its risk level and lack of certain safety protocols, there is a call for increased attention to monitoring and maintenance to safeguard both the dam and the surrounding community in the face of potential environmental challenges.
Dam Height |
15 |
Nid Storage |
80 |
Hazard Potential |
Undetermined |
Nid Height |
15 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Pearl River At Burnside
|
1070cfs |
Tuscolameta Creek At Walnut Grove
|
401cfs |
South Canal Tuscolameta Creek Nr Walnut Grove
|
8cfs |
Pearl River At Edinburg
|
202cfs |
Chunky River Nr Chunky
|
301cfs |
Pearl River Nr Carthage
|
277cfs |
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.
Earl Laird Lake Dam