Mcdowell Pond Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Mcdowell Pond, located in St.


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Summary

Mary, Louisiana, is a privately owned dam designed by Flavelle Perryman for water supply purposes. Completed in 1949, this earth dam stands at 10 feet high with a hydraulic height of 6 feet and a length of 510 feet, holding a normal storage capacity of 50 acre-feet. The dam is regulated by the Louisiana Department of Transportation and Development, with state permitting, inspection, and enforcement in place.

With a low hazard potential and a satisfactory condition assessment, Mcdowell Pond poses a moderate risk level according to the data. The dam has a controlled spillway with a width of 3 feet and a maximum discharge capacity of 486 cubic feet per second. The last inspection was conducted in November 2016, with an inspection frequency of 5 years. Despite its moderate risk level, the dam meets regulatory guidelines and has yet to experience significant modifications or emergency preparedness challenges.

For water resource and climate enthusiasts, Mcdowell Pond offers a glimpse into the infrastructure supporting water supply in Louisiana. With its historical significance dating back to the mid-20th century and its relatively low hazard potential, the dam serves as a vital component of the local water management system. The data paints a picture of a well-maintained structure that continues to play a crucial role in ensuring water availability for the surrounding community.

Year Completed

1949

Dam Length

510

Dam Height

10

River Or Stream

TR-CLARKE BAYOU

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Hydraulic Height

6

Drainage Area

1

Nid Storage

68

Structural Height

10

Hazard Potential

Low

Foundations

Soil

Nid Height

10
       
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.