John Ray Lake Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: January 26, 2026

John Ray Lake Dam, located in Hinds, Mississippi, is a privately owned structure primarily used for recreation purposes.


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Summary

Built in 2000, this earth dam stands at a height of 17 feet and spans a length of 830 feet, providing a storage capacity of 140 acre-feet. The dam overlooks the scenic UNT of Straight Fence Creek and covers a surface area of 15.6 acres, with a drainage area of 0.26 square miles.

Managed by the Mississippi Department of Environmental Quality, John Ray Lake Dam is regulated, inspected, and enforced to ensure its safety and compliance with state standards. Despite its low hazard potential, the dam is rated as not assessed for condition, with a moderate risk level of 3. The dam features an uncontrolled spillway type and has a maximum discharge capacity of 730 cubic feet per second, serving as a vital resource for water conservation and environmental protection in the region.

Enthusiasts of water resources and climate will appreciate the significance of John Ray Lake Dam in providing recreational opportunities while also contributing to the overall water management strategy in the area. With its picturesque location and essential role in water storage and runoff control, this dam serves as a valuable asset for both the local community and the environment, highlighting the importance of sustainable infrastructure development and maintenance in the face of changing climate conditions.

Year Completed

2000

Dam Length

830

Dam Height

17

River Or Stream

UNT OF STRAIGHT FENCE CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

15.6

Drainage Area

0.26

Nid Storage

140

Hazard Potential

Low

Nid Height

17
       
Seasonal Comparison

Hourly 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.