Mason Lake Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 6, 2025

Mason Lake Dam, located in Olive Branch, Mississippi, stands as a testament to engineering excellence with its primary purpose being recreation.


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Summary

Constructed in 1991 by designer William D. Porter, this earth dam boasts a height of 15 feet and a structural height of 21.4 feet, serving as a crucial water resource for the area. With a normal storage capacity of 57.8 acre-feet and a maximum storage of 87 acre-feet, Mason Lake Dam plays a pivotal role in managing water levels and ensuring the sustainability of the surrounding ecosystem.

Despite its satisfactory condition assessment in 2019, Mason Lake Dam poses a high hazard potential due to its uncontrolled spillway type. The dam's risk assessment indicates a moderate level, emphasizing the importance of regular inspections and maintenance to mitigate potential risks. Managed by the Mississippi Department of Environmental Quality, the dam is subject to state regulation, permitting, inspection, and enforcement to uphold safety standards and protect the community from any unforeseen emergencies.

As a focal point for water enthusiasts and climate advocates, Mason Lake Dam represents a harmonious blend of human ingenuity and environmental stewardship. Its role in providing recreational opportunities while safeguarding water resources underscores the significance of sustainable infrastructure development in mitigating climate change impacts and promoting resilience in the face of evolving environmental challenges.

Year Completed

1991

Dam Length

1370

Dam Height

15

River Or Stream

UNT OF CAMP CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

9.51

Hydraulic Height

14.5

Drainage Area

0.05

Nid Storage

87

Structural Height

21.4

Hazard Potential

High

Nid Height

21
       
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.