Heard Lake Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 6, 2025

Heard Lake Dam, located in Noxubee, Mississippi, is a private dam primarily used for recreation purposes.


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Summary

This earth dam with a buttress core stands at a height of 15 feet and has a storage capacity of 90 acre-feet. The dam is regulated by the Mississippi Department of Environmental Quality and is subject to state inspections and enforcement.

Despite being classified as having a low hazard potential, Heard Lake Dam is considered to have a moderate risk level based on a risk assessment score of 3. While the condition of the dam is currently not rated, emergency action plans are not yet prepared or reviewed. The dam features an uncontrolled spillway and does not have locks or associated structures.

For water resource and climate enthusiasts, Heard Lake Dam presents an intriguing case study in dam management and risk assessment. With its recreational purpose and state regulation, this dam serves as a focal point for understanding the complexities of balancing water storage needs with safety considerations in a changing climate. Future inspections and assessments will be crucial in ensuring the continued safety and functionality of this vital water resource infrastructure.

Dam Height

15

Nid Storage

90

Hazard Potential

Low

Nid Height

15
       
Seasonal Comparison

Weather Forecast

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.