Horseshoe Brake Reservoir Report
Nearby: Shackleford Lake Jaggers Lake Dam
Last Updated: December 19, 2025
Horseshoe Brake is a picturesque recreational dam located in Morehouse, Louisiana, along the Bayou Bartholomew-offstream.
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Summary
Owned by the local government and regulated by the Louisiana Department of Transportation and Development, this Earth-type dam stands at a height of 17 feet and was completed in 1972. With a storage capacity of 1172 acre-feet and a surface area of 137.9 acres, Horseshoe Brake offers visitors a serene setting for outdoor activities like fishing, boating, and wildlife observation.
Despite being classified as having a low hazard potential and fair condition assessment, Horseshoe Brake is still subject to regular state inspections every five years to ensure its structural integrity. The dam features a controlled spillway and vertical lift outlet gates to manage water flow, with a maximum discharge rate of 100 cubic feet per second. In case of emergencies, the dam has designated emergency contacts, although detailed emergency action plans and risk assessments are still pending.
Water resource and climate enthusiasts can appreciate Horseshoe Brake for its contribution to local water management and recreational opportunities. The dam's location in the Vicksburg District offers a unique blend of natural beauty and engineered infrastructure, making it a valuable asset for both the community and the environment. With its rich history and ongoing maintenance efforts, Horseshoe Brake serves as a reminder of the importance of sustainable water resource practices in the face of changing climate conditions.
Year Completed |
1972 |
Dam Length |
500 |
Dam Height |
17 |
River Or Stream |
BAYOU BARTHOLOMEW-OFFSTREAM |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
137.9 |
Hydraulic Height |
12 |
Drainage Area |
1 |
Nid Storage |
1172 |
Structural Height |
17 |
Outlet Gates |
Vertical Lift |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Soil |
Nid Height |
17 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Bayou Bartholomew Near Jones
|
302cfs |
Chemin-A-Haut Byu Nr Beekman
|
0cfs |
Bayou Bartholomew Near Portland
|
177cfs |
Bayou Macon Nr Kilbourne
|
29cfs |
Bayou Macon At Eudora
|
11cfs |
Boeuf River Nr Girard
|
127cfs |
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.
Horseshoe Brake