Lake Martin Dam Reservoir Report
Last Updated: January 12, 2026
Lake Martin Dam, also known as Lake La Pointe Dam, is a state-owned structure located in Lafayette, Louisiana.
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Summary
Completed in 1952, this earth dam stands at a height of 15 feet and has a maximum storage capacity of 5,300 acre-feet. The primary purpose of the dam is for recreation, providing a surface area of 800 acres for activities such as boating and fishing.
Managed by the Louisiana Department of Transportation and Development, Lake Martin Dam is regulated, inspected, and enforced by state authorities to ensure its safety and functionality. With a low hazard potential and fair condition assessment, the dam poses a moderate risk level. The spillway type is uncontrolled, with a width of 40 feet, and the dam features a slide (sluice gate) outlet for water discharge. Overall, Lake Martin Dam serves as a vital water resource for the community while offering a picturesque setting for outdoor enthusiasts to enjoy.
Year Completed |
1952 |
Dam Length |
26996 |
Dam Height |
15 |
River Or Stream |
VERMILION RIVER OFFSTREAM |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
800 |
Hydraulic Height |
12 |
Drainage Area |
1 |
Nid Storage |
5300 |
Structural Height |
18 |
Outlet Gates |
Slide (sluice gate) |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Soil |
Nid Height |
18 |
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.
Lake Martin Dam