Rawls Dam Reservoir Report
Nearby: William Dyess Dam Lacy Lake Dam
Last Updated: December 7, 2025
Rawls Dam, also known as Rawls Minnow Farm, is a private-owned structure located in the Shady Grove Community of Natchitoches, Louisiana.
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Summary
Built in 1946 by the USDA NRCS, this earth-type dam stands at a height of 17 feet and stretches for 600 feet, serving a primary purpose as a Fish and Wildlife Pond. With a storage capacity of 82 acre-feet and a low hazard potential, Rawls Dam plays a vital role in fire protection, stock, small fish pond management, and recreational activities in the area.
Managed by the Louisiana Department of Transportation and Development, Rawls Dam is regulated, inspected, and enforced by state authorities to ensure its safety and functionality. The dam's spillway, with a width of 40 feet, is uncontrolled, allowing for the release of excess water during flooding events. Despite not having a current condition rating, Rawls Dam has a moderate risk assessment (3) and an inspection frequency of every 5 years, reflecting the importance of regular monitoring and maintenance to mitigate potential risks and ensure the continued protection of the surrounding environment and community.
Situated in the Fort Worth District and under the supervision of the Natural Resources Conservation Service, Rawls Dam stands as a testament to responsible water resource management and conservation efforts. With its strategic location and multi-purpose design, this dam serves as a valuable asset for wildlife habitat enhancement, water storage, and recreational opportunities, embodying the harmonious integration of human activities with natural ecosystems in Louisiana's diverse landscape.
Year Completed |
1946 |
Dam Length |
600 |
Dam Height |
14 |
River Or Stream |
UNNAMED |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
8 |
Hydraulic Height |
14 |
Drainage Area |
0.09 |
Nid Storage |
82 |
Structural Height |
17 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Soil |
Nid Height |
17 |
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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.
Rawls Dam