Joe Long Ponds Reservoir Report
Nearby: Eldrin Fondren Ponds T. W. Aust Ponds
Last Updated: December 5, 2025
Joe Long Ponds is a privately owned earth dam in Belzoni, Mississippi, designed by the USDA NRCS and completed in 1965.
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Summary
With a dam height of 8 feet and a storage capacity of 2200 acre-feet, it serves as a crucial water resource on the TR-Yazoo River. Despite being unregulated by the state, the dam poses a significant hazard potential and has a moderate risk assessment rating.
This uncontrolled spillway dam plays a vital role in managing water flow and storage in the region, with a maximum discharge capacity of 10 cubic feet per second. While the condition of Joe Long Ponds is currently not rated, its risk assessment indicates the need for ongoing monitoring and potentially implementing risk management measures to ensure the safety and stability of the structure. As a prominent feature in the Vicksburg District, this dam is of interest to water resource and climate enthusiasts for its impact on the local hydrology and ecosystem.
Located in Leflore County, Mississippi, Joe Long Ponds stands as a testament to the intersection of human engineering and environmental conservation efforts. As a key component of the region's water infrastructure, this earth dam serves multiple purposes beyond flood control, showcasing the importance of sustainable water management practices in mitigating the effects of climate change. Despite its significant hazard potential, Joe Long Ponds remains an essential asset for the community, highlighting the delicate balance between human development and environmental stewardship in the face of evolving climate challenges.
Year Completed |
1965 |
Dam Length |
15840 |
Dam Height |
8 |
River Or Stream |
TR- YAZOO RIVER |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Hydraulic Height |
8 |
Nid Storage |
2200 |
Outlet Gates |
Uncontrolled |
Hazard Potential |
Significant |
Foundations |
Soil |
Nid Height |
8 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Abiaca Creek At Cruger
|
44cfs |
Harland Creek Nr Howard
|
3340cfs |
Big Sunflower River At Sunflower
|
1370cfs |
Tallahatchie River At Money
|
6080cfs |
Bogue Phalia Nr Leland
|
1110cfs |
Big Black River At West
|
223cfs |
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.
Joe Long Ponds