Toledo Bend
Key Takeaway
Toledo Bend is classified as high hazard in Louisiana. It was completed in 1966 and is 60 years old. Its primary use is hydroelectric. 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 | 112 ft (taller than 99.7% in LA) |
| Dam Length | 10,350 ft |
| Dam Type | Earth |
| Max Storage | 5.1M acre-ft |
| Normal Storage | 4.5M acre-ft |
| Surface Area | 182,490 acres |
| Drainage Area | 7,190 sq mi |
| Max Discharge | 290,000 cfs |
| Year Completed | 1966 (60 years old) |
| NID ID | LA00030 |
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
Sabine River Authority of Texas and Sabine River Authority, State of Louisiana (Authorities)
State Government
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the hazard classification of Toledo Bend?
Toledo Bend 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 Toledo Bend?
Toledo Bend is owned by Sabine River Authority of Texas and Sabine River Authority, State of Louisiana (Authorities) (State Government). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.
When was Toledo Bend built?
Toledo Bend was completed in 1966, making it 60 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 Toledo Bend?
Toledo Bend serves the following purposes: Hydroelectric, Navigation, Recreation, Water Supply. Many dams in the U.S. are multi-purpose, supporting flood control, water supply, recreation, and other uses.
How tall is Toledo Bend?
Toledo Bend has a dam height of 112 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 Toledo Bend last inspected?
Toledo Bend was last inspected on May 10, 2022. Inspection dates indicate when a formal review occurred, not the results of that inspection.