Don Sides Lake Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Don Sides Lake Dam, located in Yalobusha, Mississippi, is a privately owned structure primarily used for recreation purposes.


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Summary

Built in 1982, this earthen dam stands at a height of 20 feet and has a storage capacity of 96 acre-feet. The dam is regulated by the Mississippi Department of Environmental Quality, with state permitting, inspection, and enforcement in place to ensure its safety and compliance with regulations.

The dam's hazard potential is currently classified as undetermined, with a moderate risk level assigned. While the condition assessment is not rated, the dam meets state jurisdiction requirements and is subject to regular inspections. The spillway type is uncontrolled, and there are no locks associated with the structure. Overall, Don Sides Lake Dam serves as a significant recreational resource in the area, offering opportunities for water-based activities and enjoyment for residents and visitors alike.

Water resource and climate enthusiasts will find Don Sides Lake Dam to be an intriguing structure, showcasing the intersection of human engineering with environmental stewardship. With its location in a picturesque setting and its role in providing recreational opportunities, this dam represents a balance between water management and public enjoyment. As efforts continue to ensure the safety and integrity of the dam, it remains a focal point for those interested in the intersection of water resources and climate resilience in the region.

Year Completed

1982

Dam Height

20

Drainage Area

0.3

Nid Storage

96

Hazard Potential

Undetermined

Nid Height

20
       
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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.