L And W Catfish Ponds Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

L and W Catfish Ponds is a private water resource located in Washington County, Mississippi, specifically in the city of Wayside.


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Summary

Built in 1965 by the USDA NRCS, this earth dam stands at 8 feet high and spans 13,002 feet in length. The primary purpose of this structure is designated as 'Other', with a storage capacity of 640 acre-feet. The dam is situated along the TR-GRANICUS BAYOU, within the Vicksburg District of Mississippi.

Despite being unregulated by the state, L and W Catfish Ponds poses a low hazard potential with a moderate risk assessment score of 3. This water resource operates with uncontrolled spillways and outlets, with no associated locks. The dam is noted to be in 'Not Rated' condition, with no recent inspection data available. While it does not currently have an Emergency Action Plan (EAP) in place, the risk management measures for this site are unspecified, suggesting potential for future enhancements in safety protocols.

For water resource and climate enthusiasts, L and W Catfish Ponds offers a unique glimpse into private water management practices in the Mississippi region. As a historic structure with a specific focus on catfish farming, this site presents an interesting intersection of agricultural and environmental interests. With its low hazard potential and moderate risk assessment, there is room for further exploration and development to ensure the long-term sustainability and safety of this water resource.

Year Completed

1965

Dam Length

13002

Dam Height

8

River Or Stream

TR- GRANICUS BAYOU

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Hydraulic Height

8

Nid Storage

640

Outlet Gates

Uncontrolled

Hazard Potential

Low

Foundations

Soil

Nid Height

8
       
Seasonal Comparison

Weather Forecast

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.