Lakes Of Nicholas Number 3 Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Lakes of Nicholas Number 3 Dam in Olive Branch, Mississippi, stands as a private-owned structure regulated by the Mississippi Department of Environmental Quality.


°F

°F

mph

Wind

%

Humidity

Summary

Completed in 2005, this earth dam serves primarily for recreational purposes, offering a serene 5.8-acre surface area and a storage capacity of 54 acre-feet. Designed by Greg Russell, the dam's construction features a stone core on a soil foundation, with a height reaching 12 feet.

The dam's spillway operates in an uncontrolled manner, with a maximum discharge capacity of 273 cubic feet per second. Although the hazard potential is currently undetermined and the condition is not rated, the risk assessment for the dam indicates a moderate level (3). This structure, part of the Horn Lake Creek watershed, provides a tranquil environment for water resource and climate enthusiasts to appreciate the intersection of engineering ingenuity and natural beauty in DeSoto County, Mississippi.

As a vital component of the local ecosystem, Lakes of Nicholas Number 3 Dam plays a crucial role in water management and conservation efforts in the region. With its picturesque setting and recreational opportunities, the dam stands as a testament to the importance of sustainable infrastructure development in safeguarding both the environment and the community's well-being. For enthusiasts interested in water resources and climate resilience, this dam serves as a fascinating case study in balancing human needs with environmental stewardship in the dynamic landscape of Mississippi.

Year Completed

2005

Dam Length

400

Dam Height

10

River Or Stream

UNT OF UNT OF HORN LAKE CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

5.8

Hydraulic Height

11

Drainage Area

0.15

Nid Storage

54

Structural Height

12

Outlet Gates

Uncontrolled

Hazard Potential

Undetermined

Foundations

Soil

Nid Height

12
       
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.