Lake Powell Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 6, 2025

Lake Powell Dam, located in Lafayette, Mississippi, is a private dam primarily designated for recreation.


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Summary

Standing at 18 feet high with a capacity of 68.6 acre-feet, this earth dam serves as a popular spot for water enthusiasts and nature lovers alike. Designed by MENDROP & WAGES, LLC, the dam's purpose is not only to provide recreational opportunities but also to regulate water flow in the area.

Managed by the Mississippi Department of Environmental Quality, Lake Powell Dam is equipped with an uncontrolled spillway and a moderate hazard potential rating. While the dam's condition has not been formally assessed, it remains operational and contributes to the local ecosystem through its storage capacity and drainage area. With a risk assessment rating of 3 (moderate), the dam is monitored regularly to ensure its safety and structural integrity.

Despite its private ownership, Lake Powell Dam plays a crucial role in the water resource management of the region. As a beloved recreational spot and a functional piece of infrastructure, it highlights the intersection of human-made structures and natural landscapes in the context of climate and water conservation.

Dam Length

800

Dam Height

18

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

6.5

Hydraulic Height

16.5

Drainage Area

0.11

Nid Storage

68.6

Hazard Potential

Undetermined

Nid Height

18
       
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.
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Area Campgrounds