Poverty Point Reservoir Dam
Key Takeaway
Poverty Point Reservoir Dam is classified as high hazard in Louisiana. It was completed in 1998 and is 28 years old. Its primary use is water supply. 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 | 42 ft (taller than 97.4% in LA) |
| Dam Length | 27,000 ft |
| Dam Type | Earth |
| Max Storage | 31.0K acre-ft |
| Normal Storage | 16.0K acre-ft |
| Surface Area | 2,460 acres |
| Drainage Area | 7 sq mi |
| Max Discharge | 16,400 cfs |
| Year Completed | 1998 (28 years old) |
| NID ID | LA00513 |
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
State Government
Nearby Dams
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the hazard classification of Poverty Point Reservoir Dam?
Poverty Point Reservoir 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 Poverty Point Reservoir Dam?
Poverty Point Reservoir Dam is owned by State of Louisiana (State Government). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.
When was Poverty Point Reservoir Dam built?
Poverty Point Reservoir Dam was completed in 1998, making it 28 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 Poverty Point Reservoir Dam?
Poverty Point Reservoir Dam serves the following purposes: Water Supply. Many dams in the U.S. are multi-purpose, supporting flood control, water supply, recreation, and other uses.
How tall is Poverty Point Reservoir Dam?
Poverty Point Reservoir Dam has a dam height of 42 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 Poverty Point Reservoir Dam last inspected?
Poverty Point Reservoir Dam was last inspected on August 17, 2022. Inspection dates indicate when a formal review occurred, not the results of that inspection.