John C. Stennis Lock and Dam

TOMBIGBEE· Lowndes, Mississippi· Built 1980· Gravity·
Significant Hazard Navigation Recreation Federal Government

Key Takeaway

John C. Stennis Lock and Dam is classified as significant hazard in Mississippi. It was completed in 1980 and is 46 years old. Its primary use is navigation. Significant hazard means failure could cause economic or environmental damage. Learn more.

Physical Details

Dam Length1,000 ft
Dam TypeGravity
Max Storage59.5K acre-ft
Normal Storage59.5K acre-ft
Surface Area8,910 acres
Drainage Area4,440 sq mi
Max Discharge628,200 cfs
Year Completed1980 (46 years old)
NID IDMS03056

Safety Information

Significant Hazard

No probable loss of human life, but can cause economic loss, environmental damage, or disruption of lifeline facilities.

Hazard potential describes downstream consequences of failure, not the dam's current condition. What does this mean?

Emergency Action Plan: Yes
Last Inspection: April 22, 2022
State Regulated: Yes
Regulatory Agency: MS DEPARTMENT OF ENVIRONMENTAL QUALITY

Ownership

USACE - Mobile District

Federal Government

Nearby Dams

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the hazard classification of John C. Stennis Lock and Dam?

John C. Stennis Lock and Dam is classified as Significant Hazard. No probable loss of human life, but can cause economic loss, environmental damage, or disruption of lifeline facilities. This classification refers to the potential downstream consequences of a failure, not the dam's current structural condition.

Who owns and operates John C. Stennis Lock and Dam?

John C. Stennis Lock and Dam is owned by USACE - Mobile District (Federal Government). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.

When was John C. Stennis Lock and Dam built?

John C. Stennis Lock and Dam was completed in 1980, making it 46 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 John C. Stennis Lock and Dam?

John C. Stennis Lock and Dam serves the following purposes: Navigation, Recreation. Many dams in the U.S. are multi-purpose, supporting flood control, water supply, recreation, and other uses.

When was John C. Stennis Lock and Dam last inspected?

John C. Stennis Lock and Dam was last inspected on April 22, 2022. Inspection dates indicate when a formal review occurred, not the results of that inspection.

Data from the National Inventory of Dams (NID) maintained by the US Army Corps of Engineers. Dam conditions may have changed since the last update. This site is not affiliated with USACE. Do not use for emergency planning — contact your local dam safety program.