Norris Lake Dam
Key Takeaway
Norris Lake Dam is classified as significant hazard in Mississippi. It was completed in 1940 and is 86 years old. Its primary use is recreation. Significant hazard means failure could cause economic or environmental damage. Learn more.
Physical Details
| Dam Height | 15 ft (taller than 30.5% in MS) |
| Dam Length | 1,000 ft |
| Dam Type | Earth |
| Max Storage | 354 acre-ft |
| Normal Storage | 189 acre-ft |
| Surface Area | 42 acres |
| Drainage Area | 1 sq mi |
| Year Completed | 1940 (86 years old) |
| NID ID | MS00344 |
Safety Information
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?
Ownership
MISSISSIPPI STATE UNIVERSITY
State Government
Nearby Dams
Johnston Lake Ms00349 Dam
Oktibbeha, MS
Low Hazard 8 ftMs04995 Lake Dam
Oktibbeha, MS
Unknown 15 ftMs04996 Lake Dam
Oktibbeha, MS
Unknown 14 ftDavis Lake Ms00350 Dam
Oktibbeha, MS
Low Hazard 8 ftMs04932 Lake Dam
Oktibbeha, MS
Low Hazard 14 ftMafes North Dam
Oktibbeha, MS
Low Hazard 21 ftMs04990 Lake Dam
Oktibbeha, MS
Low Hazard 19 ftMs04989 Lake Dam
Oktibbeha, MS
Low Hazard 10 ftFrequently Asked Questions
What is the hazard classification of Norris Lake Dam?
Norris Lake 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 Norris Lake Dam?
Norris Lake Dam is owned by MISSISSIPPI STATE UNIVERSITY (State Government). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.
When was Norris Lake Dam built?
Norris Lake Dam was completed in 1940, making it 86 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 Norris Lake Dam?
Norris 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 Norris Lake Dam?
Norris Lake Dam has a dam height of 15 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 Norris Lake Dam last inspected?
Norris Lake Dam was last inspected on December 6, 2022. Inspection dates indicate when a formal review occurred, not the results of that inspection.