Woodson Ridge Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Woodson Ridge Dam, located in Lafayette County, Mississippi, is a private-owned structure primarily used for recreation purposes.


°F

°F

mph

Wind

%

Humidity

Summary

Built in 2008, the dam stands at a height of 36 feet with a hydraulic height of 30 feet and a structural height of 42 feet. It has a length of 300 feet and a storage capacity of 204 acre-feet, with a normal storage level of 148 acre-feet. The dam's low hazard potential and moderate risk assessment make it a relatively safe structure for the surrounding area.

Designed by ESI's Mike Faulkner, Woodson Ridge Dam is regulated by the Mississippi Department of Environmental Quality, ensuring compliance with state permitting, inspection, and enforcement requirements. The dam features an uncontrolled spillway and is classified as an earth-type dam with a buttress core. Its location in Oxford, Mississippi, offers a surface area of 15.8 acres and serves as a popular spot for outdoor activities and water recreation. With its sturdy design and regulatory oversight, Woodson Ridge Dam provides both safety and enjoyment for water resource and climate enthusiasts in the region.

Overall, Woodson Ridge Dam is a well-maintained and carefully regulated structure that enhances the recreational opportunities in Lafayette County. Its strategic design, coupled with regular state oversight, ensures the safety of the surrounding community and the preservation of the area's natural resources. As a focal point for outdoor enthusiasts and water lovers, Woodson Ridge Dam continues to play a vital role in providing recreational activities while maintaining a low hazard potential and moderate risk assessment for all those who enjoy its waters.

Year Completed

2008

Dam Length

300

Dam Height

36

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

15.8

Hydraulic Height

30

Drainage Area

0.52

Nid Storage

204

Structural Height

42

Hazard Potential

Low

Nid Height

42
       
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.