Tommy Ellis Lake Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Tommy Ellis Lake is a privately owned reservoir located in Sunflower, Mississippi, with a primary purpose classified as "Other." Built in 1968 by the USDA NRCS, this Earth-type dam stands at 8 feet high and spans 5280 feet in length, holding a maximum storage capacity of 80 acre-feet.


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Summary

Situated on TR-Jones Bayou, the lake serves as a vital water resource in the region, with a low hazard potential and a moderate risk assessment rating.

Despite not being regulated by the state, Tommy Ellis Lake plays a crucial role in water management and conservation efforts. With uncontrolled spillways and outlet gates, the lake provides controlled discharge with a maximum rate of 2 cubic feet per second. Although the condition assessment is currently "Not Rated," the lake's risk management measures are deemed sufficient for its moderate risk level. Overall, Tommy Ellis Lake is a valuable asset for both water resource enthusiasts and climate advocates, reflecting the importance of sustainable water infrastructure in the face of environmental challenges.

Year Completed

1968

Dam Length

5280

Dam Height

8

River Or Stream

TR- JONES BAYOU

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Hydraulic Height

8

Nid Storage

80

Outlet Gates

Uncontrolled

Hazard Potential

Low

Foundations

Soil

Nid Height

8
       
Seasonal Comparison

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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.