Dogwood Lake Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 19, 2025
Dogwood Lake, located in Loranger, Louisiana, is a privately owned reservoir managed by Zemurray Park.
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Summary
Built in 1938, this earth dam structure on Chappapeela Creek serves primarily for recreational purposes, offering a serene escape for water resource and climate enthusiasts. With a dam height of 16 feet and a storage capacity of 200 acre-feet, the lake covers an area of 16 acres and boasts a spillway width of 25 feet. Despite its low hazard potential and fair condition assessment, the dam is regularly inspected by the Louisiana Department of Transportation and Development to ensure its safety and compliance with state regulations.
Surrounded by the picturesque Tangipahoa County, Dogwood Lake provides a tranquil setting for outdoor activities such as fishing, boating, and wildlife viewing. Its proximity to the Chappapeela Creek offers a unique opportunity to explore the natural beauty and biodiversity of the region. The dam's moderate risk assessment (scored 3 out of 5) highlights the importance of ongoing risk management measures to safeguard the surrounding community and environment in case of emergencies. While the lake's primary purpose is recreational, its historical significance and structural features make it a noteworthy destination for water resource enthusiasts seeking to immerse themselves in the intersection of nature and engineering.
As one of the key reservoirs in the Vicksburg District, Dogwood Lake stands as a testament to the harmonious coexistence of human recreation and environmental conservation. Its earth dam, buttress, and stone core types contribute to its structural integrity, while the uncontrolled spillway ensures safe discharge during periods of high water flow. With a history dating back to the pre-WWII era, the lake continues to serve as a valuable resource for the local community and a reminder of the importance of sustainable water management practices. For water resource and climate enthusiasts, Dogwood Lake offers a fascinating blend of history, engineering, and natural beauty to explore and appreciate.
Year Completed |
1938 |
Dam Length |
1600 |
Dam Height |
16 |
River Or Stream |
CHAPPEPEELA CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
16 |
Hydraulic Height |
12 |
Drainage Area |
1 |
Nid Storage |
200 |
Structural Height |
16 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Soil |
Nid Height |
16 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Tchefuncta River Near Folsom
|
67cfs |
Tangipahoa River At Robert
|
467cfs |
Natalbany River At Baptist
|
14cfs |
Tickfaw River At Holden
|
219cfs |
Tangipahoa River At Osyka
|
164cfs |
Bogue Chitto River Near Bush
|
797cfs |
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.
Dogwood Lake