Ed Herring Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Located in Franklin, Mississippi, the Ed Herring Dam stands as a vital water resource management structure along Cotton Creek.


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Summary

Completed in 1997, this earth dam serves primarily for recreational purposes, offering a serene setting for outdoor enthusiasts to enjoy nature. With a height of 16 feet and a length of 587 feet, the dam boasts a storage capacity of 50 acre-feet, providing essential water storage for the region.

Managed by the private sector and regulated by the Mississippi Department of Environmental Quality, the Ed Herring Dam is equipped with an uncontrolled spillway to manage excess water flow during periods of high discharge. Despite its low hazard potential and moderate risk assessment, the dam's condition remains unrated, highlighting the need for ongoing monitoring and maintenance. While currently not designated as a US Army Corps of Engineers (USACE) structure, the Ed Herring Dam plays a crucial role in water resource management and climate resilience efforts within the region.

Overall, the Ed Herring Dam serves as a key component in the region's water infrastructure, providing both recreational opportunities and essential water storage capabilities. As climate change continues to impact water resources, structures like the Ed Herring Dam play a crucial role in ensuring water security for local communities. With a focus on safety and sustainability, ongoing assessments and risk management measures will be essential to maintain the dam's functionality and resilience in the face of evolving environmental challenges.

Year Completed

1997

Dam Length

587

Dam Height

16

River Or Stream

COTTON CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

4.5

Drainage Area

0.14

Nid Storage

50

Hazard Potential

Low

Nid Height

16
       
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.