Big Lake Dam
Key Takeaway
Big Lake Dam is classified as high hazard in Mississippi. It was completed in 1955 and is 71 years old. Its primary use is recreation. High hazard means loss of life is likely if the dam fails — it does not indicate the dam's current condition. Learn more.
Physical Details
| Dam Height | 25 ft (taller than 78.4% in MS) |
| Dam Length | 600 ft |
| Dam Type | Earth |
| Max Storage | 250 acre-ft |
| Normal Storage | 149 acre-ft |
| Drainage Area | 0 sq mi |
| Year Completed | 1955 (71 years old) |
| NID ID | MS01199 |
Safety Information
Loss of human life is likely if the dam fails.
Hazard potential describes downstream consequences of failure, not the dam's current condition. What does this mean?
Ownership
RAINBOW RANCH, INC
Private
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Low Hazard 20 ftFrequently Asked Questions
What is the hazard classification of Big Lake Dam?
Big Lake Dam is classified as High Hazard. Loss of human life is likely if the dam fails. This classification refers to the potential downstream consequences of a failure, not the dam's current structural condition.
Who owns and operates Big Lake Dam?
Big Lake Dam is owned by RAINBOW RANCH, INC (Private). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.
When was Big Lake Dam built?
Big Lake Dam was completed in 1955, making it 71 years old. Many U.S. dams were built between the 1930s and 1970s during a period of major infrastructure investment.
What is the primary purpose of Big Lake Dam?
Big Lake Dam serves the following purposes: Recreation. Many dams in the U.S. are multi-purpose, supporting flood control, water supply, recreation, and other uses.
How tall is Big Lake Dam?
Big Lake Dam has a dam height of 25 ft. Dam height is measured from the natural streambed at the downstream toe to the top of the dam, and may differ from the visible height.
When was Big Lake Dam last inspected?
Big Lake Dam was last inspected on March 8, 2023. Inspection dates indicate when a formal review occurred, not the results of that inspection.