Shirley Willis Pond Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 9, 2025
Shirley Willis Pond, also known as Willis Pond, is a picturesque water resource located in Lake Bistineau State Park, Louisiana.
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Summary
Built in 1936 by the WPA-CCC, this private recreational area serves as a popular spot for both locals and visitors to enjoy water-based activities. With a dam height of 10 feet and a storage capacity of 124 acre-feet, the pond offers a tranquil setting for fishing, boating, and other leisure pursuits.
Managed by the Louisiana Department of Transportation and Development, Shirley Willis Pond is regulated and inspected regularly to ensure its safety and functionality. The dam, primarily designed for recreation purposes, also serves as a water supply source in the region. With a controlled spillway and a low hazard potential, the pond is deemed to be in fair condition, making it a relatively low-risk structure in terms of potential emergencies. Despite its age, the pond continues to provide a beautiful and peaceful environment for water resource and climate enthusiasts to appreciate and enjoy.
Surrounded by the natural beauty of Webster, Louisiana, Shirley Willis Pond stands as a testament to the historical significance of water infrastructure projects in the area. Its earth dam construction, alongside stone buttresses, reflects a blend of traditional engineering and aesthetic design. The pond's capacity for water storage, along with its controlled spillway and well-maintained condition, highlights the importance of sustainable water management practices in ensuring the longevity and safety of vital water resources in the region.
Year Completed |
1936 |
Dam Length |
450 |
Dam Height |
10 |
River Or Stream |
TR-BAYOU DORCHEAT |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
19 |
Hydraulic Height |
10 |
Drainage Area |
0.16 |
Nid Storage |
124 |
Structural Height |
13 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Soil |
Nid Height |
13 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Red Chute Bayou At Sligo
|
59cfs |
Saline Bayou Near Lucky
|
38cfs |
Cypress Bayou Near Keithville
|
5cfs |
Bayou Dorcheat Near Springhill
|
191cfs |
Bayou Pierre Near Lake End
|
187cfs |
Bayou San Patricio Near Benson
|
0cfs |
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.
Shirley Willis Pond
Lake Bistineau Near Ringgold