Chivery Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 6, 2025

Chivery Dam, also known as Black Lake, is a state-owned structure located in St.


°F

°F

mph

Wind

%

Humidity

Summary

Maurice, Louisiana. Built in 1934 by the LA Department of Public Works, this earth dam serves primarily for recreational purposes along the Bayou Chivary. Standing at a height of 30 feet with a structural height of 37 feet, it provides a storage capacity of 280,000 acre-feet and covers a surface area of 10,500 acres.

Managed by the Louisiana Department of Transportation and Development, Chivery Dam has a low hazard potential and is deemed to be in fair condition as of its last assessment in 2017. With a moderate risk assessment rating, the dam has an uncontrolled spillway with a width of 100 feet and a drainage area of 928 square miles. While there are no outlet gates or locks associated with the structure, it remains a vital component in the water resource management system of the region.

Water resource and climate enthusiasts will appreciate the historical significance and engineering marvel of Chivery Dam, which has been integral in providing recreational opportunities and regulating water flow along Bayou Chivary. With its strategic location in Natchitoches County, Louisiana, the dam continues to play a crucial role in water storage, flood control, and environmental conservation efforts in the area. As one of the state-regulated structures with a rich heritage dating back to the early 20th century, Chivery Dam stands as a testament to sustainable water management practices in the region.

Year Completed

1934

Dam Length

400

Dam Height

30

River Or Stream

BAYOU CHIVARY

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

10500

Hydraulic Height

30

Drainage Area

928

Nid Storage

280000

Structural Height

37

Outlet Gates

None

Hazard Potential

Low

Foundations

Soil

Nid Height

37
       
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.