Smith Pond No 3 Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 6, 2025

Smith Pond No 3, also known as Beaver Lake, is a privately owned water resource located in Webster, Louisiana.


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Summary

This irrigation and water supply structure was designed by USDA NRCS and completed in 1936. The earth dam stands at a height of 20 feet with a hydraulic height of 15 feet, providing a storage capacity of 190 acre-feet.

Managed by the Louisiana Department of Transportation and Development, Smith Pond No 3 has a low hazard potential and is in fair condition as of the last inspection in September 2020. The dam, situated on TR-COOLEY BRANCH, has a spillway width of 20 feet and a maximum discharge of 670 cubic feet per second. Despite its moderate risk assessment rating, the structure has not undergone any modifications in recent years and is considered to meet safety guidelines.

Water resource and climate enthusiasts in the area should take note of Smith Pond No 3 for its historical significance in irrigation and water supply purposes. With its stone core and soil foundation, this earth dam contributes to the local water management system and serves as a vital asset for the community. Its location in Minden, Louisiana, along with its controlled structure and regulatory oversight, make it an essential component of the region's water infrastructure.

Year Completed

1936

Dam Length

770

Dam Height

20

River Or Stream

TR-COOLEY BRANCH

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

19

Hydraulic Height

15

Drainage Area

1

Nid Storage

190

Structural Height

20

Hazard Potential

Low

Foundations

Soil

Nid Height

20
       
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.