Morel Lake Reservoir Report
Nearby: Bundick Creek Dam Alvin Gray Dam
Last Updated: December 20, 2025
Morel Lake, also known as Harold Miller Lake, is a privately owned water supply reservoir located in Dry Creek, Louisiana.
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Summary
Built in 1952 by designer Walter Morel, the dam stands at a height of 7 feet and has a maximum storage capacity of 50 acre-feet. The lake covers an area of 13 acres and is primarily used for water supply purposes.
Despite its low hazard potential, Morel Lake is assessed to be in poor condition, with a very high risk ranking. The dam features a controlled spillway with a width of 25 feet and has a structural height of 7 feet. The lake is regulated by the Louisiana Department of Transportation and Development, with inspections conducted at a frequency of 5 years.
For water resource and climate enthusiasts, Morel Lake offers a unique opportunity to study the intersection of infrastructure management and environmental risk. With its historical significance and ongoing maintenance challenges, the lake serves as a valuable case study in the importance of sustainable water resource management practices in the face of changing climate conditions.
Year Completed |
1952 |
Dam Length |
700 |
Dam Height |
7 |
River Or Stream |
TR-JIM BURNEY BRANCH |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
13 |
Hydraulic Height |
6 |
Nid Storage |
50 |
Structural Height |
7 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Soil |
Nid Height |
7 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Whiskey Chitto Creek Near Oberlin
|
237cfs |
Bundick Ck Nr De Ridder
|
70cfs |
Calcasieu River Near Oberlin
|
88cfs |
Calcasieu River Near Kinder
|
662cfs |
Bayou Anacoco Near Rosepine
|
124cfs |
Calcasieu River Nr Glenmora
|
108cfs |
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.
Morel Lake