Lower Anacoco Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 20, 2025

Lower Anacoco Dam, also known as Lake Anacoco, is a state-owned structure located in the Savage Fork Community of Vernon, Louisiana.


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Summary

Built in 1951 by the Louisiana Department of Public Works, this earth dam serves primarily for recreational purposes along the Bayou Anacoco. With a height of 37 feet and a hydraulic height of 36 feet, the dam spans 5,170 feet in length and boasts a maximum storage capacity of 82,500 acre-feet.

The dam's spillway type is uncontrolled with a width of 500 feet, and it features a slide (sluice gate) for outlet gates. Despite being classified as having a low hazard potential, the condition assessment of Lower Anacoco Dam was reported as fair during its last inspection in May 2020. The risk assessment for the dam is moderate (3), indicating a need for ongoing monitoring and risk management measures to ensure its continued safety and functionality for the surrounding community.

Water resource and climate enthusiasts interested in the Lower Anacoco Dam can appreciate its historical significance as a recreational site in Louisiana, as well as its engineering characteristics and risk profile. Maintaining the integrity of this dam is crucial for the safety and well-being of the area, highlighting the importance of regular inspections and risk management strategies to mitigate potential hazards and ensure sustainable water resource management in the region.

Years Modified

1958 - Structural

Year Completed

1951

Dam Length

5170

Dam Height

37

River Or Stream

BAYOU ANACOCO

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

2600

Hydraulic Height

36

Drainage Area

209

Nid Storage

82500

Structural Height

43

Outlet Gates

Slide (sluice gate)

Hazard Potential

Low

Foundations

Soil

Nid Height

43
       
Seasonal Comparison

Weather Forecast

Dam Data Reference

Condition Assessment

Satisfactory
No existing or potential dam safety deficiencies are recognized. Acceptable performance is expected under all loading conditions (static, hydrologic, seismic) in accordance with the minimum applicable state or federal regulatory criteria or tolerable risk guidelines.
Fair
No existing dam safety deficiencies are recognized for normal operating conditions. Rare or extreme hydrologic and/or seismic events may result in a dam safety deficiency. Risk may be in the range to take further action. Note: Rare or extreme event is defined by the regulatory agency based on their minimum
Poor A dam safety deficiency is recognized for normal operating conditions which may realistically occur. Remedial action is necessary. POOR may also be used when uncertainties exist as to critical analysis parameters which identify a potential dam safety deficiency. Investigations and studies are necessary.
Unsatisfactory
A dam safety deficiency is recognized that requires immediate or emergency remedial action for problem resolution.
Not Rated
The dam has not been inspected, is not under state or federal jurisdiction, or has been inspected but, for whatever reason, has not been rated.
Not Available
Dams for which the condition assessment is restricted to approved government users.

Hazard Potential Classification

High
Dams assigned the high hazard potential classification are those where failure or mis-operation will probably cause loss of human life.
Significant
Dams assigned the significant hazard potential classification are those dams where failure or mis-operation results in no probable loss of human life but can cause economic loss, environment damage, disruption of lifeline facilities, or impact other concerns. Significant hazard potential classification dams are often located in predominantly rural or agricultural areas but could be in areas with population and significant infrastructure.
Low
Dams assigned the low hazard potential classification are those where failure or mis-operation results in no probable loss of human life and low economic and/or environmental losses. Losses are principally limited to the owner's property.
Undetermined
Dams for which a downstream hazard potential has not been designated or is not provided.
Not Available
Dams for which the downstream hazard potential is restricted to approved government users.