Lake Martha Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 11, 2025

Lake Martha Dam, located in Brandon, Mississippi, stands as a pivotal structure in the management of water resources in the area.


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Summary

Completed in 2006, this private-owned dam primarily serves the purpose of recreation, offering a tranquil escape for visitors seeking to enjoy the 68.2-acre surface area and 638-acre normal storage capacity of the lake it creates. Designed by George P. Guest, the dam is an earth-type structure with a height of 30 feet and a hydraulic height of 25 feet, contributing to its fair condition assessment and high hazard potential.

Owned and regulated by the Mississippi Department of Environmental Quality, Lake Martha Dam plays a crucial role in the conservation and utilization of water resources within Rankin County. With a drainage area of 0.58 square miles and a maximum discharge capacity of 1357 cubic feet per second, the dam ensures proper water management for the benefit of both the local ecosystem and recreational activities. Despite its fair condition, the dam's risk assessment is moderate, highlighting the importance of regular inspections and maintenance to ensure the safety and sustainability of this vital water resource infrastructure.

Year Completed

2006

Dam Length

1400

Dam Height

30

River Or Stream

UNT OF RICHLAND CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

68.2

Hydraulic Height

25

Drainage Area

0.58

Nid Storage

949

Structural Height

35

Outlet Gates

None

Hazard Potential

High

Foundations

Soil

Nid Height

35
       
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.