Ross Branch Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 6, 2025

Ross Branch Dam, located in Winston, Mississippi, is a federal-owned structure managed by the US Fish and Wildlife Service.


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Summary

Built in 1963, this earth dam stands at a height of 19 feet and stretches 625 feet in length, creating the Ross Branch Fish and Wildlife Pond. The dam serves the primary purpose of providing habitat for fish and wildlife in the area, with a storage capacity of 305 acre-feet.

Despite its relatively low hazard potential, the dam's condition assessment was reported as poor during the last inspection in August 2016. With a moderate risk level assigned, there are no Emergency Action Plans (EAP) in place, raising concerns about the management of potential risks associated with the structure. Given its importance for the local ecosystem, it is crucial to address the dam's maintenance and safety to ensure the continued protection of the surrounding environment and wildlife. Water resource and climate enthusiasts should monitor developments related to Ross Branch Dam to support conservation efforts in the region.

Years Modified

1979 - Hydraulic

Year Completed

1963

Dam Length

625

Dam Height

19

River Or Stream

NOXUBEE-TR

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Hydraulic Height

19

Drainage Area

0.9

Nid Storage

305

Structural Height

19

Outlet Gates

Valve

Hazard Potential

Low

Nid Height

19
       
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.