Chatham Lake Dam
Key Takeaway
Chatham Lake Dam is classified as significant hazard in Louisiana. It was completed in 1940 and is 86 years old. Its primary use is recreation. Significant hazard means failure could cause economic or environmental damage. Learn more.
Physical Details
| Dam Height | 17 ft (taller than 46.6% in LA) |
| Dam Length | 1,780 ft |
| Dam Type | Earth |
| Max Storage | 3.0K acre-ft |
| Normal Storage | 2.5K acre-ft |
| Surface Area | 175 acres |
| Drainage Area | 19 sq mi |
| Max Discharge | 2,900 cfs |
| Year Completed | 1940 (86 years old) |
| NID ID | LA00008 |
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
Jackson Parish Watershed Commission
Local Government
Nearby Dams
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the hazard classification of Chatham Lake Dam?
Chatham Lake 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 Chatham Lake Dam?
Chatham Lake Dam is owned by Jackson Parish Watershed Commission (Local Government). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.
When was Chatham Lake Dam built?
Chatham Lake Dam was completed in 1940, making it 86 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 Chatham Lake Dam?
Chatham Lake 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 Chatham Lake Dam?
Chatham Lake Dam has a dam height of 17 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 Chatham Lake Dam last inspected?
Chatham Lake Dam was last inspected on July 19, 2021. Inspection dates indicate when a formal review occurred, not the results of that inspection.