C. H. Block Catfish Ponds Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 5, 2025
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Summary
H. Block Catfish Ponds, located in Tunica, Mississippi, is a private earth dam structure designed by the USDA NRCS and completed in 1970. The dam has a height of 8 feet and a storage capacity of 400 acre-feet, serving as a crucial water resource for catfish farming in the area. The dam's primary purpose is listed as "Other," with low hazard potential and a moderate risk assessment rating.
This uncontrolled spillway dam on TR-Phillips Bayou is not state-regulated and does not require permitting, inspection, or enforcement. It is operated by private owners and has not been modified since its construction. The dam's condition is currently not rated, and emergency preparedness measures, such as an Emergency Action Plan (EAP), are not in place. Despite these factors, the C. H. Block Catfish Ponds play a significant role in the local water supply and agriculture industry, contributing to the region's economic and environmental sustainability.
With its unique design and historical significance, the C. H. Block Catfish Ponds stand as a testament to the importance of water resource management in Mississippi. This earth dam, funded by the Natural Resources Conservation Service, continues to support local catfish farming operations while maintaining a low-risk profile. As climate change and water scarcity become increasingly pressing issues, structures like the C. H. Block Catfish Ponds serve as essential components of resilient water infrastructure, highlighting the intersection of water resources and climate adaptation in the region.
Year Completed |
1970 |
Dam Length |
9220 |
Dam Height |
8 |
River Or Stream |
TR- PHILLIPS BAYOU |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Hydraulic Height |
8 |
Nid Storage |
400 |
Outlet Gates |
Uncontrolled |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Soil |
Nid Height |
8 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Big Sunflower River At Clarksdale
|
58cfs |
Hotopha Creek Nr Batesville
|
13cfs |
Languille River At Palestine
|
11cfs |
Mississippi River At Memphis
|
235000cfs |
Coldwater River Nr Olive Branch
|
104cfs |
Languille River Near Colt
|
12cfs |
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.
C. H. Block Catfish Ponds