Little Darbonne Dam
Key Takeaway
Little Darbonne Dam is classified as significant hazard in Louisiana. It was completed in 1964 and is 62 years old. Its primary use is recreation. Significant hazard means failure could cause economic or environmental damage. Learn more.
Physical Details
| Dam Height | 23 ft (taller than 72.4% in LA) |
| Dam Length | 500 ft |
| Dam Type | Earth |
| Max Storage | 518 acre-ft |
| Normal Storage | 300 acre-ft |
| Surface Area | 45 acres |
| Drainage Area | 1 sq mi |
| Max Discharge | 1,200 cfs |
| Year Completed | 1964 (62 years old) |
| NID ID | LA00493 |
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
Little Darbonne Lake Corp.
Private
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What is the hazard classification of Little Darbonne Dam?
Little Darbonne 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 Little Darbonne Dam?
Little Darbonne Dam is owned by Little Darbonne Lake Corp. (Private). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.
When was Little Darbonne Dam built?
Little Darbonne Dam was completed in 1964, making it 62 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 Little Darbonne Dam?
Little Darbonne 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 Little Darbonne Dam?
Little Darbonne Dam has a dam height of 23 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 Little Darbonne Dam last inspected?
Little Darbonne Dam was last inspected on May 10, 2022. Inspection dates indicate when a formal review occurred, not the results of that inspection.