John C. Stennis Lock And Dam Reservoir Report
Nearby: Ms No Name 159 Dam Ms No Name 161 Dam
Last Updated: December 6, 2025
John C.
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Summary
Stennis Lock and Dam, also known as Columbus Lake, is a federal facility located in Lowndes, Mississippi, along the Tombigbee River. Completed in 1980 by the US Army Corps of Engineers, this gravity dam serves primarily for navigation purposes, with associated recreational benefits. With a structural height of 82 feet and a hydraulic height of 47 feet, the dam provides a controlled spillway with a width of 300 feet and a single lock measuring 600 feet in length and 110 feet in width.
The dam has a significant hazard potential and a very high risk assessment, with the US Army Corps of Engineers actively managing flood risks by monitoring the dam's condition, prioritizing risk-reduction activities, and engaging with emergency managers and the public. Despite the dam's limited water storage capacity, measures are in place to release water as needed to maintain structural integrity and manage water levels. Regular inspection and maintenance are conducted to ensure the dam's proper functioning and readiness for potential emergencies.
In the event of severe weather or increased water flow, the US Army Corps of Engineers works closely with local emergency managers to update emergency action plans and support community preparedness. By addressing the various flood risks associated with the dam and promoting awareness and readiness among stakeholders, the John C. Stennis Lock and Dam plays a crucial role in water resource management and climate resilience efforts in the region.
Year Completed |
1980 |
Dam Length |
1000 |
River Or Stream |
TOMBIGBEE |
Primary Dam Type |
Gravity |
Surface Area |
8910 |
Length Of Locks |
600 |
Hydraulic Height |
47 |
Drainage Area |
4440 |
Nid Storage |
59483 |
Structural Height |
82 |
Hazard Potential |
Significant |
Nid Height |
82 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
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.
John C. Stennis Lock And Dam