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

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

The G.V.


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Summary

"Sonny" Montgomery Lock and Dam - Spillway, located in Prentiss, Mississippi, along the Tombigbee River, is a federal-owned structure managed by the US Army Corps of Engineers. Completed in 1984, this gravity dam serves primarily for navigation purposes, with a spillway type of "Controlled" and a width of 225 feet. The dam has a hydraulic height of 37 feet and a structural height of 52 feet, with a length of 5400 feet and a storage capacity of 7700 acre-feet.

Managed by the US Army Corps of Engineers, the dam poses a significant hazard potential with a very high risk assessment rating. To address the risks associated with the dam, the Corps continuously monitors its condition and implements risk management measures such as regular maintenance, repairs, and updating the emergency action plan. The dam plays a crucial role in managing water levels and preventing flood risks, with the Corps working closely with local emergency managers to develop evacuation plans and raise public awareness about the dam's operations.

In the event of severe weather events or excessive water inflow, the dam may release water to maintain structural integrity or manage downstream water levels. While dams cannot eliminate all flood risks, the US Army Corps of Engineers strives to address all types of risks associated with the G.V. "Sonny" Montgomery Lock and Dam - Spillway to ensure the safety of surrounding communities and the structural integrity of the dam.

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

52

Hazard Potential

Significant

Nid Height

52
       
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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.