Nelle Gray Pond Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Nestled in DeSoto County, Mississippi, the Nelle Gray Pond Dam stands as a testament to sustainable water resource management and climate resilience.


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Summary

Built in 1956 by the USDA NRCS, this private-owned earth dam serves a primary purpose of recreation along the TR- Horn Lake Creek -OS. With a height of 14 feet and a storage capacity of 96 acre-feet, the dam boasts a low hazard potential and satisfactory condition assessment, ensuring its structural integrity for the community of JAGO and beyond.

Managed by the Mississippi Department of Environmental Quality, the Nelle Gray Pond Dam is subject to state regulations, inspections, and enforcement measures to uphold safety standards. Despite being uncontrolled, the dam's spillway and outlet gates have been designed to mitigate potential risks and ensure effective water discharge during extreme events. With a moderate risk assessment rating and a history of regular inspections, the dam remains a reliable resource for recreational activities while maintaining a focus on environmental conservation and public safety.

As part of the Vicksburg District, the Nelle Gray Pond Dam exemplifies the collaboration between federal and state agencies in overseeing water infrastructure projects. With a focus on sustainable practices and risk management, the dam serves as a model for other earth dams in the region. By harnessing the expertise of the Natural Resources Conservation Service and implementing effective regulatory measures, the dam continues to play a vital role in supporting the local community and promoting responsible water resource management in Mississippi.

Year Completed

1956

Dam Height

14

River Or Stream

TR- HORN LAKE CREEK -OS

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Nid Storage

96

Outlet Gates

Uncontrolled

Hazard Potential

Low

Foundations

Soil

Nid Height

14
       
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.