Heron Lake Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 21, 2025

Heron Lake, also known as Whippoorwill Grove No.


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Summary

3, is a private water resource located in St. Tammany, Louisiana. This reservoir is situated near Simmons Creek and was completed in 1988 for the primary purpose of recreation. The dam, primarily made of earth with buttress and stone core types, stands at a height of 12 feet and has a hydraulic height of 10 feet, providing a storage capacity of 321.6 acre-feet.

Managed by the Louisiana Department of Transportation and Development, Heron Lake has a low hazard potential and is considered to be in satisfactory condition as of the last inspection in December 2016. The reservoir covers a surface area of 26.8 acres and is equipped with an uncontrolled spillway, 20 feet in width. With its serene location in Bush, Louisiana, Heron Lake offers a tranquil setting for outdoor enthusiasts to enjoy various recreational activities such as fishing, boating, and birdwatching.

Despite its moderate risk assessment, Heron Lake remains a popular destination for water and climate enthusiasts seeking a peaceful escape in the heart of nature. With its picturesque surroundings and well-maintained facilities, this private reservoir provides a unique opportunity for visitors to immerse themselves in the beauty of St. Tammany Parish while supporting the importance of water resource conservation and sustainable recreation practices.

Year Completed

1988

Dam Length

780

Dam Height

12

River Or Stream

SIMMONS CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

26.8

Hydraulic Height

10

Drainage Area

1

Nid Storage

321.6

Structural Height

12

Hazard Potential

Low

Foundations

Soil

Nid Height

12
       
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.