Horseshoe Lake Dam
Key Takeaway
Horseshoe Lake Dam is classified as significant hazard in Louisiana. It was completed in 1948 and is 78 years old. Its primary use is recreation. Significant hazard means failure could cause economic or environmental damage. Learn more.
Physical Details
| Dam Height | 12 ft (taller than 19% in LA) |
| Dam Length | 680 ft |
| Dam Type | Earth |
| Max Storage | 970 acre-ft |
| Normal Storage | 565 acre-ft |
| Surface Area | 162 acres |
| Drainage Area | 2 sq mi |
| Max Discharge | 140 cfs |
| Year Completed | 1948 (78 years old) |
| NID ID | LA00258 |
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
Morehouse Parish Police Jury
Local Government
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Low Hazard 14 ftFrequently Asked Questions
What is the hazard classification of Horseshoe Lake Dam?
Horseshoe 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 Horseshoe Lake Dam?
Horseshoe Lake Dam is owned by Morehouse Parish Police Jury (Local Government). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.
When was Horseshoe Lake Dam built?
Horseshoe Lake Dam was completed in 1948, making it 78 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 Horseshoe Lake Dam?
Horseshoe 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 Horseshoe Lake Dam?
Horseshoe Lake Dam has a dam height of 12 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 Horseshoe Lake Dam last inspected?
Horseshoe Lake Dam was last inspected on April 12, 2022. Inspection dates indicate when a formal review occurred, not the results of that inspection.