Hand Pond Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 9, 2025

Hand Pond, located in Red River, Louisiana, is a privately owned water resource managed by the USDA NRCS.


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Summary

Constructed in 1961, this Earth dam stands at a height of 18 feet and serves as a Fish and Wildlife Pond with a storage capacity of 109 acre-feet. The dam spans 800 feet in length and has a surface area of 12 acres, providing habitat for various wildlife species in the area.

Managed by the Louisiana Dept. of Transportation, this low hazard dam with a fair condition assessment offers recreational opportunities for the surrounding community. The spillway design is uncontrolled with a width of 50 feet, allowing for a maximum discharge of 400 cfs. The dam's risk assessment is moderate (3), prompting regular inspections every 5 years to ensure safe operation and compliance with regulatory standards.

With its strategic location along the TR-POSEY BRANCH stream, Hand Pond not only serves as a vital water storage facility but also contributes to the local ecosystem and offers a tranquil setting for outdoor activities. This unique water resource continues to be a valuable asset to both wildlife and residents in the region, highlighting the importance of sustainable water management practices in the face of changing climate conditions.

Year Completed

1961

Dam Length

800

Dam Height

18

River Or Stream

TR-POSEY BRANCH

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

12

Hydraulic Height

18

Drainage Area

0.16

Nid Storage

109

Structural Height

21

Hazard Potential

Low

Foundations

Soil

Nid Height

21
       
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.