Bayou Bodcau Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Bayou Bodcau Dam, also known as Bodcau Lake, is a federal-owned structure in Bossier City, Louisiana, managed by the US Army Corps of Engineers to primarily reduce flood risks along the Bayou Bodcau.


°F

°F

mph

Wind

%

Humidity

Summary

Built in 1949, this earth dam stands at a structural height of 76 feet and a hydraulic height of 70 feet, with a total length of 15,850 feet. While the dam greatly mitigates flood risks downstream, there is still a possibility of flooding during extreme storm events. In such cases, the emergency spillway may be activated to prevent overtopping and potential dam failure, leading to flooding in surrounding areas like Bossier City and beyond.

To manage and reduce risks associated with the dam, the US Army Corps of Engineers regularly inspects and assesses Bayou Bodcau Dam. Recent risk management measures include a seepage study and armoring with heavy stone to prevent erosion during spillway activation. The agency also collaborates with various organizations like the National Weather Service, US Geological Survey, and the State of Louisiana Governor’s Office of Homeland Security and Emergency Preparedness to monitor and respond to potential threats. In the event of high-water situations, dam safety professionals increase surveillance to 24 hours a day and are prepared to take immediate action to ensure the dam's safety and optimal operation.

Year Completed

1949

Dam Length

15850

River Or Stream

BAYOU BODCAU

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

1

Hydraulic Height

70

Drainage Area

655

Nid Storage

1197700

Structural Height

76

Hazard Potential

High

Foundations

Soil

Nid Height

76
       
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.