Beechgrove Lake Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 22, 2025

Beechgrove Lake is a private recreational lake located in Clinton, Louisiana, within the East Feliciana County.


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Summary

The dam, completed in 1940, is primarily used for recreation and stands at a height of 18 feet, with a hydraulic height of 15 feet. The lake has a storage capacity of 290 acre-feet and covers a surface area of 180 acres. It is situated along the Opossum Bayou, with a maximum discharge of 2112 cubic feet per second.

Despite being classified as having a low hazard potential, Beechgrove Lake is regularly inspected by the Louisiana Department of Transportation and Development, with enforcement and permitting processes in place to ensure its safety. The dam is constructed of earth with buttress and stone core types, supported by a soil foundation. The condition assessment in 2019 rated the dam's condition as fair, with a moderate risk level. The spillway, which is uncontrolled, has a width of 80 feet.

Enthusiasts of water resources and climate will appreciate the unique characteristics of Beechgrove Lake, from its historical significance to its recreational value. The lake provides a serene escape for visitors seeking outdoor activities and offers an opportunity to appreciate the intersection of human engineering with natural landscapes. Its location along the Opossum Bayou contributes to the local ecosystem and serves as a vital water resource in East Feliciana County. With its low hazard potential and regular inspections, Beechgrove Lake stands as a testament to responsible dam management and sustainable water infrastructure in Louisiana.

Year Completed

1940

Dam Length

1080

Dam Height

18

River Or Stream

OPOSSUM BAYOU

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Hydraulic Height

15

Nid Storage

290

Structural Height

18

Hazard Potential

Low

Foundations

Soil

Nid Height

18
       
Seasonal Comparison

Weather Forecast

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.