Chicot Lake Dam
Key Takeaway
Chicot Lake Dam is classified as high hazard in Louisiana. It was completed in 1940 and is 86 years old. Its primary use is recreation. 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 | 29 ft (taller than 86.4% in LA) |
| Dam Length | 6,423 ft |
| Dam Type | Earth |
| Max Storage | 13.2K acre-ft |
| Normal Storage | 9.7K acre-ft |
| Surface Area | 1,640 acres |
| Drainage Area | 39 sq mi |
| Max Discharge | 11,200 cfs |
| Year Completed | 1940 (86 years old) |
| NID ID | LA00010 |
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
State of Louisiana
Local Government
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Significant Hazard 21 ftFrequently Asked Questions
What is the hazard classification of Chicot Lake Dam?
Chicot Lake Dam 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 Chicot Lake Dam?
Chicot Lake Dam is owned by State of Louisiana (Local Government). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.
When was Chicot Lake Dam built?
Chicot 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 Chicot Lake Dam?
Chicot 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 Chicot Lake Dam?
Chicot Lake Dam has a dam height of 29 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 Chicot Lake Dam last inspected?
Chicot Lake Dam was last inspected on July 25, 2022. Inspection dates indicate when a formal review occurred, not the results of that inspection.