Mrs S O Tharp Lake Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Mrs S O Tharp Lake, located in Murphy, Mississippi, is a privately owned water reservoir with a primary purpose designated as "Other".


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Summary

The dam, constructed in 1966 by the USDA NRCS, is an earth dam with a height of 8 feet and a length of 5420 feet, designed to control the flow of the TR- Sunflower River. The reservoir has a storage capacity of 152 acre-feet and a low hazard potential, making it a vital resource for water management in the region.

Managed by the Vicksburg District of the US Army Corps of Engineers, Mrs S O Tharp Lake serves as a crucial water source for the area, with a spillway type classified as "Uncontrolled" and an outlet gate also designated as "Uncontrolled". Despite its moderate risk assessment rating, the lake has not been assigned a Dam Safety Action Classification (DSAC) date, indicating that it is currently under close monitoring for any potential hazards. The condition assessment of the dam is noted as "Not Rated", suggesting that further evaluation may be necessary to ensure its structural integrity and safety for the surrounding community.

Although Mrs S O Tharp Lake is not regulated by the state and does not require permitting or inspections, its importance for water resource management in the region cannot be understated. With a rich history dating back to the 1960s, this reservoir continues to play a vital role in mitigating the impact of climate change and ensuring a sustainable water supply for the residents of Humphreys County, Mississippi.

Year Completed

1966

Dam Length

5420

Dam Height

8

River Or Stream

TR- SUNFLOWER RIVER

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Hydraulic Height

8

Nid Storage

152

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.