Bayou Darbonne Dam + Reservoir Reservoir Report
Nearby: Ouchley Pond Bayles Pond
Last Updated: December 11, 2025
Located in Union, Louisiana, Bayou Darbonne Dam + Reservoir is a state-regulated water resource managed by the Louisiana Department of Transportation and Development.
°F
°F
mph
Wind
%
Humidity
Summary
Completed in 1961, this Earth-type dam stands at a height of 54 feet and serves multiple purposes including fish and wildlife enhancement, recreation, and water supply. With a storage capacity of 240,000 acre-feet and a surface area of 15,250 acres, this reservoir on Bayou Darbonne covers a drainage area of 1,585 square miles.
The dam features an uncontrolled spillway with a width of 879 feet and is equipped with slide gates for controlled water release. With a hazard potential rated as high and a fair condition assessment as of August 2020, regular inspections and maintenance ensure the safety and functionality of this crucial water management infrastructure. While primarily serving as a fish and wildlife pond, the reservoir offers recreational opportunities and supports water supply needs in the region. As a key component of the water infrastructure in Louisiana, Bayou Darbonne Dam + Reservoir plays a vital role in managing water resources and enhancing environmental conservation efforts in the area.
With a moderate risk assessment rating, the dam and reservoir are subject to regular monitoring and risk management measures to ensure the safety of the surrounding community and the integrity of the structure. The Louisiana Department of Transportation and Development oversees the operations, inspections, and enforcement related to this water resource, highlighting the state's commitment to effective water management and environmental stewardship. As an essential component of the Vicksburg District's water infrastructure, Bayou Darbonne Dam + Reservoir stands as a testament to the importance of sustainable water resource management and climate resilience in the region.
Year Completed |
1961 |
Dam Length |
2450 |
Dam Height |
54 |
River Or Stream |
BAYOU DARBONNE |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
15250 |
Hydraulic Height |
51 |
Drainage Area |
1585 |
Nid Storage |
240000 |
Structural Height |
54 |
Outlet Gates |
Slide (sluice gate) |
Hazard Potential |
High |
Foundations |
Soil |
Nid Height |
54 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Little Corney Bayou Near Lillie
|
111cfs |
Bayou Lafourche Near Crew Lake
|
369cfs |
Boeuf River Nr Girard
|
9cfs |
Chemin-A-Haut Byu Nr Beekman
|
0cfs |
Bayou Bartholomew Near Jones
|
366cfs |
Saline Bayou Near Lucky
|
31cfs |
Dam Data Reference
Condition Assessment
SatisfactoryNo 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
HighDams 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.
Bayou Darbonne Dam + Reservoir
North Spillway Road Union Parish