Charles Pickering Catfish Ponds Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 14, 2025
Charles Pickering Catfish Ponds, located in Hattiesburg, Mississippi, was completed in 1971 by the USDA NRCS and serves as a private earth dam structure for catfish ponds.
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Summary
This low hazard potential dam stands at 10 feet in height and has a storage capacity of 70 acre-feet. With a spillway width of 18 feet and uncontrolled outlets, the dam is equipped to handle a maximum discharge of 36 cubic feet per second.
The dam is associated with the TR- Smith Creek and falls under the jurisdiction of the Vicksburg District of the US Army Corps of Engineers. Despite not being state regulated, it poses a moderate risk according to the risk assessment rating. The dam's primary purpose is listed as 'Other,' possibly indicating its role in supporting the local aquaculture industry. While its condition is currently not rated, the structure is deemed to meet operational guidelines.
For water resource and climate enthusiasts, Charles Pickering Catfish Ponds offers a fascinating example of a privately owned dam supporting agricultural activities in Mississippi. Its design and construction by the USDA NRCS reflect the importance of sustainable water management practices in the region. With a focus on catfish farming, this dam plays a crucial role in maintaining water resources and supporting local economic activities in the area.
Year Completed |
1971 |
Dam Length |
1000 |
Dam Height |
10 |
River Or Stream |
TR- SMITH CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Hydraulic Height |
10 |
Nid Storage |
70 |
Outlet Gates |
Uncontrolled |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Soil |
Nid Height |
10 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Leaf River Nr Collins
|
190cfs |
Okatoma Creek At Sanford
|
127cfs |
Tallahala Creek At Laurel
|
17cfs |
Bouie Creek Nr Hattiesburg
|
162cfs |
Tallahala Creek At Waldrup
|
164cfs |
Leaf River At Hattiesburg
|
747cfs |
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.
Charles Pickering Catfish Ponds