Boeuf River Dam Mi 51 Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 20, 2025

Boeuf River Dam Mi 51, also known as Lower Boeuf River Dam or Gunby Dam, is a local government-owned structure located in Liddieville, Louisiana.


°F

°F

mph

Wind

%

Humidity

Summary

Built in 1966 by the Louisiana Department of Public Works, this earth dam stands at a height of 37 feet and serves primarily for recreational purposes along the Boeuf River. With a maximum storage capacity of 14,000 acre-feet and a normal storage level of 12,000 acre-feet, the dam covers a surface area of 378 acres and has a drainage area of 1.5 square miles.

Despite its low hazard potential, the dam is currently rated as being in poor condition, with a moderate risk assessment score of 3. It features an uncontrolled spillway with a width of 50 feet and vertical lift outlet gates. The last inspection in July 2020 revealed the dam's poor condition, prompting a closer monitoring and evaluation of its structural integrity. While the risk management measures and emergency action plans for the dam are not specified, the local regulatory agency, Louisiana Department of Transportation and Development, conducts regular inspections and enforces necessary enforcement actions to ensure public safety.

Water resource and climate enthusiasts interested in the Boeuf River Dam Mi 51 will find this structure a crucial part of the local recreational and water management infrastructure. With its historical significance dating back to the mid-20th century, the dam continues to play a vital role in providing water storage and recreational opportunities along the Boeuf River. As efforts to improve its condition and risk assessment are ongoing, stakeholders and regulatory agencies work together to ensure the safety and sustainability of this essential water resource in Richland, Louisiana.

Year Completed

1966

Dam Length

760

Dam Height

37

River Or Stream

BOEUF RIVER

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

378

Hydraulic Height

32

Drainage Area

1.5

Nid Storage

14000

Structural Height

37

Outlet Gates

Vertical Lift

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.