Summary
The dam, standing at 40 feet high and spanning 4500 feet in length, serves multiple purposes including recreation and water storage for the Turkey Creek river system. With a maximum storage capacity of 85,000 acre-feet and a normal storage of 34,000 acre-feet, the dam covers a surface area of 3845 acres and has a drainage area of 163 square miles.
Despite its low hazard potential, Turkey Creek Dam is currently assessed as unsatisfactory in condition, with an inspection frequency of once per year. The dam features an uncontrolled spillway with a width of 512 feet and outlet gates consisting of slide (sluice gate) mechanisms. The risk assessment for the dam is moderate (3), indicating potential challenges that may require further risk management measures. Although the dam is operated by the state of Louisiana, it is not owned or funded by any federal agency.
Water resource and climate enthusiasts interested in Turkey Creek Dam will find its design and construction details, storage capacities, and risk assessment information intriguing. As a significant structure in the Turkey Creek watershed, the dam plays a crucial role in flood control, water supply, and recreational activities in the region. With its unique features and current condition assessment, Turkey Creek Dam presents an opportunity for further research and monitoring to ensure its long-term safety and effectiveness in water resource management.
Year Completed |
1953 |
Dam Length |
4500 |
Dam Height |
40 |
River Or Stream |
TURKEY CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
3845 |
Hydraulic Height |
35 |
Drainage Area |
163 |
Nid Storage |
85000 |
Structural Height |
38 |
Outlet Gates |
Slide (sluice gate) |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Soil |
Nid Height |
40 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Little River Near Rochelle
|
132cfs |
Boeuf River Nr Girard
|
145cfs |
Bayou Lafourche Near Crew Lake
|
79cfs |
Tensas River At Tendal
|
14cfs |
Big Creek At Pollock
|
19cfs |
Dugdemona River Near Joyce
|
72cfs |
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.
Turkey Creek Dam