Highland Lakes Reservoir Report
Nearby: Lake Santa Maria Dam Pennington Lake
Last Updated: December 25, 2025
Highland Lakes, also known as Fords 2nd Lake, is a private recreational water resource located in East Baton Rouge, Louisiana.
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Summary
Managed by the Louisiana Department of Transportation and Development, this earth dam structure was completed in 1945 and stands at a height of 12 feet, with a maximum storage capacity of 94 acre-feet. Despite its low hazard potential, the dam's condition assessment in 2020 was deemed unsatisfactory, reflecting the need for ongoing maintenance and monitoring to ensure its safety and functionality.
Situated on the Bayou Fountain offstream, Highland Lakes offers opportunities for water-based recreation in the Baton Rouge area. With a spillway width of 28 feet and a drainage area of 540 feet, the dam can handle a maximum discharge of 1029 cubic feet per second. Although the dam's risk assessment is moderate, with a risk level of 3, regular inspections and emergency preparedness measures are essential to mitigate any potential hazards and safeguard the surrounding community and environment.
Enthusiasts of water resources and climate in the region can appreciate Highland Lakes not only for its recreational value but also for its role in water management and conservation. As efforts continue to maintain and improve the dam's condition, it serves as a vital asset for both local residents and visitors seeking to enjoy the natural beauty and amenities of this picturesque lake in Louisiana.
Year Completed |
1945 |
Dam Length |
540 |
Dam Height |
12 |
River Or Stream |
BAYOU FOUNTAIN OFFSTREAM |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Hydraulic Height |
8 |
Nid Storage |
94 |
Structural Height |
12 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Soil |
Nid Height |
12 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Amite River Near Denham Springs
|
587cfs |
Mississippi River At Baton Rouge
|
134000cfs |
Amite River At Port Vincent
|
1070cfs |
Comite River Near Comite
|
142cfs |
Byu Lafourche @ Donaldsonville
|
505cfs |
Bayou Lafourche Sw Of Donaldsonville
|
208cfs |
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.
Highland Lakes