Lake Bistineau Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Lake Bistineau, located in Bossier, Louisiana, is a state-regulated water resource managed by the Louisiana Department of Transportation and Development.


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Summary

Built in 1941 by the Louisiana Department of Public Works, this Earth-type dam stands at a height of 27 feet and serves primarily for flood risk reduction. With a storage capacity of 318,000 acre-feet and a surface area of 17,200 acres, Lake Bistineau plays a crucial role in maintaining water supply for the region.

The dam's spillway, with a width of 1,200 feet, helps control water discharge in times of high flow, while its slide gates allow for controlled release. Despite being rated as having a high hazard potential, the dam's overall condition is considered fair as of the last inspection in July 2020. In addition to flood risk reduction, Lake Bistineau also serves recreational purposes, offering opportunities for water-based activities in the Loggy Bayou area.

With its strategic location and vital role in managing water resources, Lake Bistineau stands as a significant asset in Louisiana's water infrastructure. Climate and water resource enthusiasts can appreciate the engineering marvel of this dam, designed to protect the area from flooding while providing recreational and water supply benefits to the local community.

Year Completed

1941

Dam Length

7500

Dam Height

27

River Or Stream

LOGGY BAYOU

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

17200

Hydraulic Height

27

Drainage Area

1410

Nid Storage

318000

Structural Height

46

Outlet Gates

Slide (sluice gate)

Hazard Potential

High

Foundations

Soil

Nid Height

46
       
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.