Upper Bayou Nezpique No 7 Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 20, 2025
Upper Bayou Nezpique No 7, located in Ville Platte, Louisiana, is a flood risk reduction structure designed by the USDA NRCS and regulated by the Louisiana Department of Transportation and Development.
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Summary
Completed in 1970, this earth dam stands at a height of 24 feet and has a storage capacity of 1500 acre-feet. It serves multiple purposes including flood risk reduction, fish and wildlife pond, and recreation, making it a vital resource for the local community.
With a low hazard potential and fair condition assessment, Upper Bayou Nezpique No 7 is deemed to have a moderate risk level. The dam features an uncontrolled spillway with a width of 75 feet and vertical lift outlet gates. Despite being inspected every five years, the structure has not undergone any modifications in recent years and is maintained by the Natural Resources Conservation Service. As an essential component of the water management system in the area, this dam plays a crucial role in protecting the surrounding areas from potential flooding events.
With a drainage area of 2.78 square miles and a maximum discharge capacity of 746 cubic feet per second, Upper Bayou Nezpique No 7 ensures the efficient management of water flow in the region. Its strategic location and design demonstrate a commitment to sustainable water resource management and environmental conservation. For water resource and climate enthusiasts, this dam serves as an intriguing example of how infrastructure can contribute to both flood control and ecosystem preservation in the dynamic Louisiana landscape.
Year Completed |
1970 |
Dam Length |
1715 |
Dam Height |
17 |
River Or Stream |
TR-BAYOU NEZPIQUE |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
125 |
Hydraulic Height |
11 |
Drainage Area |
2.78 |
Nid Storage |
1500 |
Structural Height |
24 |
Outlet Gates |
Vertical Lift |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Soil |
Nid Height |
24 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Bayou Cocodrie Nr Clearwater
|
94cfs |
Bayou Courtableau At Washington
|
278cfs |
Calcasieu River Nr Glenmora
|
108cfs |
Bayou Des Cannes Nr Eunice
|
8cfs |
Bayou Nezpique Near Basile
|
104cfs |
Calcasieu River Near Oberlin
|
88cfs |
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 |
|---|---|---|
Chicot State Park
|
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Lost Bayou Scout Camp
|
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Crooked Creek Rec Area
|
Upper Bayou Nezpique No 7