Ivan Lake Dam Reservoir Report
Nearby: Greg Hall Dam H G Hayes Pond
Last Updated: December 5, 2025
Ivan Lake Dam, located in Bossier, Louisiana, is a state-regulated earth dam constructed in 1958 by the Louisiana Department of Public Works.
°F
°F
mph
Wind
%
Humidity
Summary
The dam stands at a height of 21 feet with a structural height of 35 feet, creating a reservoir with a normal storage capacity of 3,300 acre-feet and a maximum storage of 7,800 acre-feet. The primary purpose of the dam is for recreation, providing a surface area of 520 acres for water enthusiasts to enjoy activities such as boating and fishing.
The dam is situated on Caney Creek, with a drainage area of 55 square miles and a maximum discharge capacity of 7,300 cubic feet per second. The spillway, which is uncontrolled, has a width of 200 feet to manage excess water flow during heavy rainfall events. Despite being classified as having a high hazard potential, the dam's condition assessment is fair as of the last inspection in July 2020. With a risk assessment rating of moderate, management measures are in place to ensure the safety and integrity of the dam for the surrounding community.
For water resource and climate enthusiasts, Ivan Lake Dam presents a fascinating case study of a vital infrastructure designed for both recreational and water management purposes. The dam's historical significance, technical specifications, and risk assessment provide valuable insights into the challenges and considerations involved in maintaining and operating dams in the face of changing environmental conditions. As climate change continues to impact water resources, understanding the complexities of dams like Ivan Lake Dam is crucial for ensuring the resilience and sustainability of our water infrastructure for future generations.
Year Completed |
1958 |
Dam Length |
1120 |
Dam Height |
21 |
River Or Stream |
CANEY CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
520 |
Hydraulic Height |
20 |
Drainage Area |
55 |
Nid Storage |
7800 |
Structural Height |
35 |
Outlet Gates |
Slide (sluice gate) |
Hazard Potential |
High |
Foundations |
Soil |
Nid Height |
35 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Bayou Dorcheat Near Springhill
|
205cfs |
Red Chute Bayou At Sligo
|
55cfs |
Red River At Spring Bank
|
7140cfs |
Cypress Bayou Near Keithville
|
11cfs |
Big Cypress Ck Abv Sh 43 Nr Karnack
|
538cfs |
Sulphur Rv Nr Texarkana
|
576cfs |
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.
Area Campgrounds
| Location | Reservations | Toilets |
|---|---|---|
Ivan Lake
|
||
South Abutment East
|
||
Frank Anthony RV Park
|
||
Highway 157 Primitive
|
Ivan Lake Dam