Porter Hall Dam Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 13, 2025
Porter Hall Dam, located in Lawrence, Mississippi, stands as a private-owned structure regulated by the Mississippi Department of Environmental Quality.
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Summary
Completed in 2002, this earth dam primarily serves recreational purposes along the East Topisan Creek. With a height of 26 feet and a length of 917 feet, the dam boasts a storage capacity of 255 acre-feet and a surface area of 18.8 acres, making it an essential resource for water enthusiasts and climate advocates in the region.
Despite being classified as having an undetermined hazard potential and a moderate risk assessment, Porter Hall Dam remains a key feature in the New Orleans District, offering valuable recreational opportunities to the local community. With its uncontrolled spillway and sturdy buttress core type, the dam presents a unique blend of functionality and scenic beauty, attracting visitors from far and wide. Its presence, combined with the surrounding natural landscape, adds to the overall charm and appeal of the area, making it a must-visit destination for water resource and climate enthusiasts alike.
As a symbol of human ingenuity and environmental stewardship, Porter Hall Dam stands as a testament to the importance of responsible infrastructure development in harmony with nature. Its construction and ongoing maintenance reflect a commitment to both recreation and conservation, highlighting the delicate balance between human needs and the preservation of natural resources. For those passionate about water resource management and climate resilience, Porter Hall Dam serves as a shining example of how infrastructure can enhance the quality of life while safeguarding the environment for future generations to enjoy.
Year Completed |
2002 |
Dam Length |
917 |
Dam Height |
26 |
River Or Stream |
UNT OF EAST TOPISAN CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
18.8 |
Drainage Area |
0.2 |
Nid Storage |
255 |
Structural Height |
26 |
Outlet Gates |
None |
Hazard Potential |
Undetermined |
Nid Height |
26 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Pearl River Nr Monticello
|
934cfs |
Bogue Chitto Nr Tylertown
|
345cfs |
Pearl River Nr Columbia
|
1870cfs |
Pearl River Nr Rockport
|
649cfs |
Tangipahoa River At Osyka
|
178cfs |
Homochitto River At Eddiceton
|
60cfs |
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.
Porter Hall Dam