Lake Cleveland Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 6, 2025

Lake Cleveland Dam, located in Hickory, Mississippi, stands as a vital structure regulating the flow of the Unt of Okahatta Creek.


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Summary

Built in 2009 by Aqua Engineering Services Ltd., this private dam serves primarily for recreational purposes, offering a serene environment for water resource and climate enthusiasts to enjoy. With a height of 19.3 feet and a length of 757 feet, it holds a storage capacity of 149 acre-feet and covers a surface area of 17 acres.

Managed by the Mississippi Department of Environmental Quality, Lake Cleveland Dam has a low hazard potential and a moderate risk assessment rating. Despite not being rated for its condition assessment, the dam is deemed structurally sound and safe for public use. While it lacks certain emergency preparedness measures such as an updated Emergency Action Plan, the dam continues to operate effectively, providing a picturesque setting for outdoor activities.

Overall, Lake Cleveland Dam serves as a vital resource for the community, ensuring water regulation and recreation opportunities in Newton County, Mississippi. With its earth dam structure and buttress core type, this dam stands as a testament to responsible water management and environmental stewardship in the region. For those passionate about water resources and climate resilience, Lake Cleveland Dam offers a fascinating glimpse into the intersection of engineering, recreation, and natural beauty.

Year Completed

2009

Dam Length

757

Dam Height

19.3

River Or Stream

UNT OF OKAHATTA CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

17

Hydraulic Height

19.3

Drainage Area

0.34

Nid Storage

149

Structural Height

24.3

Hazard Potential

Low

Nid Height

24
       
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.