La Tech Farm Pond Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 9, 2025

The La Tech Farm Pond, located in Ruston, Louisiana, was completed in 1951 and serves as a vital water supply resource for the area.


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Summary

Owned by the state and regulated by the Louisiana Department of Transportation and Development, this earth dam structure on Shepherd Creek stands at 25 feet high and has a storage capacity of 175 acre-feet. With a surface area of 14 acres, the pond plays a crucial role in water management and supply for the region.

The dam features an uncontrolled spillway, slide gates for outlet control, and is classified as having a low hazard potential with fair condition assessment. The structure has been inspected regularly, with the last assessment conducted in April 2017. Despite moderate risk assessment, La Tech Farm Pond continues to provide a reliable water source for local communities. Climate and water resource enthusiasts will appreciate the design and functionality of this essential infrastructure for sustaining water supply needs.

With a design by LA Tech and under state jurisdiction, La Tech Farm Pond is a prime example of effective water resource management in Louisiana. This earth dam not only ensures water supply for the region but also contributes to environmental sustainability and climate resilience. As a significant asset in the area's water infrastructure, the pond serves as a testament to the importance of responsible water management practices in the face of changing climate conditions.

Year Completed

1951

Dam Length

720

Dam Height

25

River Or Stream

SHEPHERD CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

14

Hydraulic Height

23

Nid Storage

175

Structural Height

25

Outlet Gates

Slide (sluice gate)

Hazard Potential

Low

Foundations

Soil

Nid Height

25
       
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.