H. O.Tharp Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 5, 2025
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Summary
O. Tharp is a private earth dam located in Belzoni, Mississippi, along the TR-Yazoo River. Built in 1966 by the USDA NRCS, this dam stands at a height of 8 feet and has a length of 5280 feet, providing a maximum storage capacity of 240 acre-feet. Despite being categorized as having a low hazard potential, it is still considered to have a moderate risk level.
Owned and operated by a private entity, H. O. Tharp serves various purposes beyond flood control, with its primary purpose listed as "Other." The dam features an uncontrolled spillway and outlet gates, and has not been rated for its condition assessment. While it does not fall under state jurisdiction or regulation, it is in close proximity to the Vicksburg District of the US Army Corps of Engineers, adding an extra layer of oversight.
For water resource and climate enthusiasts, H. O. Tharp presents an intriguing case study of a privately owned dam that plays a vital role in managing the water resources of the region. With its unique design and moderate risk level, this structure serves as a reminder of the complex interplay between human infrastructure and natural ecosystems in the face of changing environmental conditions.
Year Completed |
1966 |
Dam Length |
5280 |
Dam Height |
8 |
River Or Stream |
TR- YAZOO RIVER |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Hydraulic Height |
8 |
Nid Storage |
240 |
Outlet Gates |
Uncontrolled |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Soil |
Nid Height |
8 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Abiaca Creek At Cruger
|
44cfs |
Bogue Phalia Nr Leland
|
1110cfs |
Harland Creek Nr Howard
|
3340cfs |
Big Sunflower River At Sunflower
|
1370cfs |
Tallahatchie River At Money
|
6080cfs |
Bayou Macon At Eudora
|
48cfs |
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.
H. O.Tharp