Earl Sims Lake Dam Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 6, 2025
Earl Sims Lake Dam, located in Attala, Mississippi, stands as a testament to modern engineering and environmental stewardship.
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Summary
Completed in 2005, this private-owned earth dam serves primarily for recreational purposes, offering a serene retreat for water enthusiasts and nature lovers alike. Designed by Christian Gardner of Gardner Engineering, the dam rises 24.4 feet in height and stretches 500 feet in length, harnessing the waters of the Zilpha Creek for a surface area of 36 acres.
Managed by the Mississippi Department of Environmental Quality, Earl Sims Lake Dam is subject to state regulation, inspection, and enforcement, ensuring its structural integrity and safety for the surrounding community. With a low hazard potential and a moderate risk assessment rating, this dam exemplifies responsible water resource management and risk mitigation practices. While its current condition is not rated, ongoing monitoring and maintenance efforts are likely in place to uphold the dam's functionality and safety standards.
Earl Sims Lake Dam's presence not only enhances the local landscape but also contributes to the overall water resource management in the region. With its tranquil waters and recreational opportunities, this dam stands as a vital asset for the community while embodying a harmonious balance between human enjoyment and environmental preservation.
Year Completed |
2005 |
Dam Length |
500 |
Dam Height |
24.4 |
River Or Stream |
UNT OF ZILPHA CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
36 |
Hydraulic Height |
21.4 |
Drainage Area |
0.44 |
Nid Storage |
574 |
Structural Height |
26.5 |
Outlet Gates |
Uncontrolled |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Soil |
Nid Height |
27 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Big Black River At West
|
223cfs |
Yockanookany River Nr Kosciusko
|
45cfs |
Harland Creek Nr Howard
|
3340cfs |
Abiaca Creek At Cruger
|
44cfs |
Batupan Bogue At Grenada
|
134cfs |
Pearl River At Edinburg
|
182cfs |
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.
Earl Sims Lake Dam