G.V. "Sonny" Montgomery Lock And Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Located on the Tombigbee River in Fulton, Mississippi, the G.V.


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Summary

"Sonny" Montgomery Lock and Dam is a vital structure owned and operated by the US Army Corps of Engineers. Completed in 1984, this gravity dam serves primarily for navigation purposes, providing a controlled spillway with a width of 52 feet. With a hydraulic height of 37 feet and a structural height of 54 feet, the dam has a storage capacity of 7,700 acre-feet and covers a surface area of 851 acres.

Managed by the USACE, the dam has a significant hazard potential and is subject to regular inspections and risk assessments to ensure its safety and structural integrity. The agency works diligently to address flood risks associated with the dam, monitoring its condition and engaging with local emergency managers and the public to raise awareness and preparedness for potential dam-related emergencies. With a strong focus on risk management, the USACE regularly updates the emergency action plan for the dam and performs maintenance and repairs as needed to mitigate potential issues.

In the face of unpredictable weather events and varying water levels, the G.V. "Sonny" Montgomery Lock and Dam stands as a critical infrastructure for water resource management and climate resilience. As enthusiasts of water resources and climate, understanding the importance of structures like this dam in navigating and managing water levels is crucial for sustainable development and disaster preparedness in the region.

Year Completed

1984

Dam Length

5400

River Or Stream

TOMBIGBEE

Primary Dam Type

Gravity

Surface Area

851

Length Of Locks

600

Hydraulic Height

37

Drainage Area

139

Nid Storage

7700

Structural Height

54

Hazard Potential

Significant

Nid Height

54
       
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.