Black Bayou Dam
Key Takeaway
Black Bayou Dam is classified as significant hazard in Louisiana. It was completed in 1955 and is 71 years old. Its primary use is recreation. Significant hazard means failure could cause economic or environmental damage. Learn more.
Physical Details
| Dam Height | 20 ft (taller than 58.9% in LA) |
| Dam Length | 1,400 ft |
| Dam Type | Earth |
| Max Storage | 46.5K acre-ft |
| Normal Storage | 17.8K acre-ft |
| Surface Area | 3,860 acres |
| Drainage Area | 231 sq mi |
| Max Discharge | 19,600 cfs |
| Year Completed | 1955 (71 years old) |
| Year Modified | 1962 |
| NID ID | LA00003 |
Safety Information
No probable loss of human life, but can cause economic loss, environmental damage, or disruption of lifeline facilities.
Hazard potential describes downstream consequences of failure, not the dam's current condition. What does this mean?
Ownership
Black Bayou Watershed Commission
Local Government
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Low Hazard 16 ftFrequently Asked Questions
What is the hazard classification of Black Bayou Dam?
Black Bayou Dam is classified as Significant Hazard. No probable loss of human life, but can cause economic loss, environmental damage, or disruption of lifeline facilities. This classification refers to the potential downstream consequences of a failure, not the dam's current structural condition.
Who owns and operates Black Bayou Dam?
Black Bayou Dam is owned by Black Bayou Watershed Commission (Local Government). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.
When was Black Bayou Dam built?
Black Bayou Dam was completed in 1955, making it 71 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 Black Bayou Dam?
Black Bayou Dam serves the following purposes: Recreation. Many dams in the U.S. are multi-purpose, supporting flood control, water supply, recreation, and other uses.
How tall is Black Bayou Dam?
Black Bayou Dam has a dam height of 20 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 Black Bayou Dam last inspected?
Black Bayou Dam was last inspected on July 15, 2022. Inspection dates indicate when a formal review occurred, not the results of that inspection.