John Starr Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 6, 2025

John Starr Dam, located in Jefferson, Mississippi, is a privately owned earth dam primarily used for recreation purposes.


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Summary

Completed in 1990, this dam stands at a height of 24 feet and spans 784 feet in length, with a storage capacity of 410 acre-feet. The dam regulates the flow of Clarks Creek and has a low hazard potential, with a moderate risk assessment rating.

Managed by the Mississippi Department of Environmental Quality, John Starr Dam is state-regulated and undergoes regular inspections and enforcement measures to ensure its safety and functionality. The dam features an uncontrolled spillway and has a maximum discharge capacity of 54 cubic feet per second. Despite not having a condition assessment rating, the dam meets guidelines for emergency action plans and risk management measures to mitigate potential risks.

Overall, John Starr Dam serves as a crucial water resource infrastructure in the region, providing recreational opportunities while also maintaining the safety and integrity of the surrounding area. With its moderate risk assessment and low hazard potential, this dam exemplifies the importance of proper regulation and maintenance in safeguarding water resources and mitigating potential hazards related to climate and water management.

Year Completed

1990

Dam Length

784

Dam Height

24

River Or Stream

UNT OF CLARKS CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

36.5

Hydraulic Height

22

Drainage Area

0.46

Nid Storage

410

Hazard Potential

Low

Nid Height

24
       
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.