Bayou Darbonne Dam and Reservoir
Key Takeaway
Bayou Darbonne Dam and Reservoir is classified as high hazard in Louisiana. It was completed in 1961 and is 65 years old. Its primary use is water supply. High hazard means loss of life is likely if the dam fails — it does not indicate the dam's current condition. Learn more.
Physical Details
| Dam Height | 54 ft (taller than 98.8% in LA) |
| Dam Length | 2,450 ft |
| Dam Type | Earth |
| Max Storage | 240.0K acre-ft |
| Normal Storage | 130.0K acre-ft |
| Surface Area | 15,250 acres |
| Drainage Area | 1,585 sq mi |
| Max Discharge | 93,500 cfs |
| Year Completed | 1961 (65 years old) |
| Year Modified | 2013 |
| NID ID | LA00015 |
Safety Information
Loss of human life is likely if the dam fails.
Hazard potential describes downstream consequences of failure, not the dam's current condition. What does this mean?
Ownership
Bayou DArbonne Watershed District
Local Government
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Low Hazard 18 ftFrequently Asked Questions
What is the hazard classification of Bayou Darbonne Dam and Reservoir?
Bayou Darbonne Dam and Reservoir is classified as High Hazard. Loss of human life is likely if the dam fails. This classification refers to the potential downstream consequences of a failure, not the dam's current structural condition.
Who owns and operates Bayou Darbonne Dam and Reservoir?
Bayou Darbonne Dam and Reservoir is owned by Bayou DArbonne Watershed District (Local Government). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.
When was Bayou Darbonne Dam and Reservoir built?
Bayou Darbonne Dam and Reservoir was completed in 1961, making it 65 years old. Many U.S. dams were built between the 1930s and 1970s during a period of major infrastructure investment.
What is the primary purpose of Bayou Darbonne Dam and Reservoir?
Bayou Darbonne Dam and Reservoir serves the following purposes: Water Supply. Many dams in the U.S. are multi-purpose, supporting flood control, water supply, recreation, and other uses.
How tall is Bayou Darbonne Dam and Reservoir?
Bayou Darbonne Dam and Reservoir has a dam height of 54 ft. Dam height is measured from the natural streambed at the downstream toe to the top of the dam, and may differ from the visible height.
When was Bayou Darbonne Dam and Reservoir last inspected?
Bayou Darbonne Dam and Reservoir was last inspected on August 23, 2023. Inspection dates indicate when a formal review occurred, not the results of that inspection.