Raceland Sugar Pond Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 25, 2025

Raceland Sugar Pond, also known as Pond #3 Mud Settling, is a privately owned earth dam located in Raceland, Louisiana.


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Summary

Built in 1960 by South Coast Sugarmill, this reservoir holds a total storage capacity of 459 acre-feet and covers a surface area of 65.6 acres. The dam stands at a height of 7 feet and has a spillway type of uncontrolled, with a maximum discharge capacity of 27 cubic feet per second.

Managed and regulated by the Louisiana Department of Transportation and Development, Raceland Sugar Pond serves as a critical water resource for the surrounding area, with a low hazard potential and a satisfactory condition assessment as of the last inspection in October 2014. Despite its age, the dam continues to meet safety guidelines and poses a moderate risk, with no significant risk management measures in place. Located near the TR-Godchaux Canal, this structure plays a vital role in water management and flood control efforts in Lafourche Parish.

With its strategic location and capacity to store and release water, Raceland Sugar Pond serves as a key component in the local water infrastructure, providing essential water supply and flood protection for the community. As climate change continues to impact the region, ensuring the continued safety and functionality of this dam remains paramount for water resource and climate enthusiasts alike.

Year Completed

1960

Dam Length

7575

Dam Height

7

River Or Stream

TR-GODCHAUX CANAL

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

65.6

Hydraulic Height

6

Drainage Area

0.1

Nid Storage

459

Structural Height

7

Hazard Potential

Low

Foundations

Soil

Nid Height

7
       
Seasonal Comparison

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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.