Bucker Catfish Ponds Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 24, 2025

Bucker Catfish Ponds is a privately-owned water resource located in Murphy, Mississippi, specifically in Washington County.


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Summary

Built in 1970 by the USDA NRCS, this Earth-type dam stands at 8 feet tall and spans 6,660 feet in length, with a storage capacity of 320 acre-feet. The primary purpose of this structure is categorized as "Other," with a low hazard potential and a moderate risk assessment rating.

Situated along Ditch Number 6, Bucker Catfish Ponds serve as a vital water resource for the region, providing irrigation and agricultural support. Despite lacking state regulation, inspection, and enforcement, the dam features an uncontrolled spillway and outlet gates, with a maximum discharge rate of 14 cubic feet per second. The risk assessment for this structure is deemed moderate, emphasizing the importance of ongoing monitoring and maintenance to ensure its integrity and functionality.

While not owned or funded by any federal agency, Bucker Catfish Ponds serves as a significant asset for the local community in managing water resources. With its historical significance dating back to the 1970s, this privately-owned dam plays a crucial role in supporting the agricultural activities in the region, highlighting the importance of sustainable water management practices for the benefit of both the environment and the economy.

Year Completed

1970

Dam Length

6660

Dam Height

8

River Or Stream

DITCH NUMBER 6

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Hydraulic Height

8

Nid Storage

320

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.