Cane River Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 7, 2025

Cane River Dam, also known as Cane River Lake, is a vital structure located in Natchitoches, Louisiana, designed by the LA Department of Public Works.


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Summary

Completed in 1949, this earth dam spans 2,400 feet and stands at a height of 32 feet along the Upper Cane River. Its primary purpose is flood risk reduction, with additional functions including irrigation and recreation. The dam has a storage capacity of 16,000 acre-feet and covers a surface area of 1,350 acres, serving as a crucial resource for water management in the region.

Owned and regulated by the state of Louisiana, the Cane River Dam is inspected regularly by the Louisiana Department of Transportation and Development to ensure its structural integrity and safety. Despite its fair condition assessment in 2018, the dam has a significant hazard potential, prompting a moderate risk assessment. With a spillway width of 98 feet and a maximum discharge capability of 2,640 cubic feet per second, the dam plays a critical role in managing water flow and mitigating flood risks in the area. The dam's emergency action plan is currently under review, highlighting the importance of proactive risk management measures.

In conclusion, Cane River Dam stands as a foundational structure in the management of water resources and climate-related challenges in Louisiana. With its multifaceted functions and strategic location on the Upper Cane River, the dam serves as a key player in flood risk reduction efforts while providing essential water storage for irrigation and recreational activities. As state-regulated infrastructure, ongoing inspections and risk assessments underscore the importance of maintaining the dam's integrity to safeguard surrounding communities and ensure sustainable water management practices for the future.

Years Modified

2012 - Structural

Year Completed

1949

Dam Length

2400

Dam Height

32

River Or Stream

UPPER CANE RIVER

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

1350

Hydraulic Height

30

Drainage Area

34

Nid Storage

16000

Structural Height

32

Outlet Gates

Slide (sluice gate)

Hazard Potential

Significant

Foundations

Soil

Nid Height

32
       
Seasonal Comparison

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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.