Tharp Lake Reservoir Report
Nearby: Berryhill Lake G. B. Mortarman Pond
Last Updated: December 5, 2025
Tharp Lake, located in Isola, Mississippi, is a privately owned water resource managed by the USDA NRCS.
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Summary
This Earth dam, completed in 1979, stands at a height of 8 feet and has a storage capacity of 1200 acre-feet. The lake is primarily fed by Willis Bayou-OS and serves multiple purposes, although its primary use is categorized as "Other."
Despite being unregulated by the state and having a low hazard potential, Tharp Lake presents a moderate risk level due to its uncontrolled spillway and outlet gates. The condition of the dam is currently not rated, and there is no detailed risk assessment or emergency action plan in place. With a maximum discharge of 14 cubic feet per second, the lake's risk management measures are not explicitly outlined, highlighting potential areas for improvement in safeguarding this water resource.
For water resource and climate enthusiasts, Tharp Lake offers an intriguing case study in private ownership and management of a significant water body. Its historical background, design specifications, and risk assessment present a nuanced picture of the challenges and opportunities in maintaining and protecting such vital resources in the face of changing environmental conditions. Further research and evaluation could provide valuable insights into sustainable water resource management practices in the region.
Year Completed |
1979 |
Dam Length |
13200 |
Dam Height |
8 |
River Or Stream |
WILLIS BAYOU -OS |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Hydraulic Height |
8 |
Nid Storage |
1200 |
Outlet Gates |
Uncontrolled |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Soil |
Nid Height |
8 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Bogue Phalia Nr Leland
|
1110cfs |
Big Sunflower River At Sunflower
|
1370cfs |
Abiaca Creek At Cruger
|
44cfs |
Harland Creek Nr Howard
|
3340cfs |
Tallahatchie River At Money
|
6080cfs |
Bayou Macon At Eudora
|
48cfs |
Dam Data Reference
Condition Assessment
SatisfactoryNo 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
HighDams 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.
Tharp Lake