Jonesville Lock And Dam Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 22, 2025
Jonesville Lock and Dam, located in Catahoula, Louisiana, along the Black River, is a Federal-owned structure managed by the US Army Corps of Engineers.
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Summary
Completed in 1972, this gravity dam serves primarily for navigation purposes, with additional benefits for recreation and water supply. Standing at a structural height of 94 feet and spanning 920 feet in length, the dam has a significant storage capacity of 149,300 acre-feet, serving a drainage area of 24,200 square miles.
With a controlled spillway width of 450 feet and a maximum discharge capacity of 176,000 cubic feet per second, the dam poses a significant hazard potential, prompting the implementation of risk management measures by the USACE. These include continual monitoring, prioritizing risk-reducing activities, and engaging with local emergency managers to raise awareness and prepare for dam-related emergencies. Despite the dam's risk, it is essential for managing water levels and ensuring structural integrity, especially during severe weather events that may lead to dam releases or overwhelm the system. Overall, Jonesville Lock and Dam's role in water resource management underscores the importance of proactive risk management and preparedness in safeguarding communities and infrastructure.
Year Completed |
1972 |
Dam Length |
920 |
River Or Stream |
BLACK RIVER |
Primary Dam Type |
Gravity |
Surface Area |
7120 |
Length Of Locks |
600 |
Hydraulic Height |
62 |
Drainage Area |
24200 |
Nid Storage |
149300 |
Structural Height |
94 |
Hazard Potential |
Significant |
Foundations |
Soil |
Nid Height |
94 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
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.
Jonesville Lock And Dam