R Dempsey Lake Dam Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 7, 2025
R Dempsey Lake Dam, located in Lauderdale, Mississippi, has been serving as a vital water resource since its completion in 1955.
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Summary
Designed by USDA NRCS, this private dam on the TR-Yantley Creek stands at a height of 18 feet and provides a storage capacity of 390 acre-feet for recreational purposes. The dam's primary purpose is for recreation, offering opportunities for boating, fishing, and other outdoor activities in the area.
Managed by the Mississippi Department of Environmental Quality, R Dempsey Lake Dam is classified as a low hazard potential structure with a moderate risk assessment. Despite its uncontrolled spillway and outlet gates, the dam has not been rated for its overall condition. However, its role in water storage and management, along with its picturesque setting, makes it a significant landmark for water resource and climate enthusiasts to explore and appreciate. The dam is located in close proximity to Yantley, providing easy access for visitors to enjoy the scenic beauty and recreational opportunities it offers.
With its earth core and buttress design, R Dempsey Lake Dam showcases the importance of sustainable water infrastructure in managing water resources effectively. As a privately owned structure with state regulation and inspection, the dam exemplifies the collaboration between government agencies and private entities in ensuring the safety and functionality of water management systems. For those passionate about water resources and climate conservation, R Dempsey Lake Dam serves as a prime example of how strategic dam construction can contribute to both recreation and environmental sustainability in the Mississippi region.
Year Completed |
1955 |
Dam Height |
18 |
River Or Stream |
TR- YANTLEY CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Nid Storage |
390 |
Outlet Gates |
Uncontrolled |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Soil |
Nid Height |
18 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Sowashee Creek At Meridian
|
12cfs |
Okatibbee Creek At Arundel
|
77cfs |
Chickasawhay River At Enterprise
|
549cfs |
Sucarnoochee River At Livingston Al
|
374cfs |
Chunky River Nr Chunky
|
245cfs |
Tombigbee R At Demopolis L&D Near Coatopa
|
4120cfs |
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.
R Dempsey Lake Dam