James Lake Dam Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 5, 2025
James Lake Dam, located in Tallahatchie, Mississippi, is a privately-owned structure primarily used for recreation purposes.
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Summary
This Earth dam with a Buttress core type stands at a height of 15 feet and has a storage capacity of 60 acre-feet. Despite its low hazard potential and moderate risk assessment, the dam's condition has not been rated. It falls under the regulatory oversight of the Mississippi Department of Environmental Quality, ensuring regular inspections and enforcement of safety measures.
While the dam does not have a designated spillway, its uncontrolled spillway type suggests a lower risk of overflow. The surrounding area benefits from the recreational opportunities provided by the dam, attracting water resource and climate enthusiasts alike. Although the dam's condition assessment is pending, its moderate risk level indicates a need for continued monitoring and potential risk management measures to ensure the safety of the structure and the surrounding community. For those interested in water resource management and climate resilience, James Lake Dam serves as a focal point for understanding the intersection of infrastructure, regulation, and environmental stewardship.
Dam Height |
15 |
Nid Storage |
60 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Nid Height |
15 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Yalobusha River At Grenada
|
3080cfs |
Batupan Bogue At Grenada
|
134cfs |
Tallahatchie River At Money
|
6080cfs |
Otoucalofa Creek Canal Nr Water Valley
|
25cfs |
Hotopha Creek Nr Batesville
|
13cfs |
Big Sunflower River At Clarksdale
|
58cfs |
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.
James Lake Dam