William Buzbee Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 21, 2025

William Buzbee Dam, located in Louisiana along Alexander Creek, was completed in 1976 with a primary purpose of recreation and other uses.


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Summary

Owned by a private entity, this earth dam stands at a height of 18 feet and has a hydraulic height of 17 feet, with a length of 360 feet and a storage capacity of 60 acre-feet. The dam also features a spillway type of uncontrolled, with a low hazard potential and fair condition assessment as of the last inspection in November 2016.

Managed by the Louisiana Department of Transportation and Development, the dam serves as a vital structure for water resource management and flood control in the region. With its location in West Feliciana County, the dam plays a crucial role in providing recreational opportunities while also safeguarding the surrounding areas from potential risks. Despite its moderate risk assessment, the dam's design and construction by Bill Howard ensure the safety and stability of the structure for years to come.

Overall, William Buzbee Dam stands as a testament to effective water resource management and climate resilience efforts in Louisiana. With its significant storage capacity and strategic location, the dam not only supports recreational activities but also contributes to the overall safety and well-being of the local community. As climate change continues to impact water resources, the role of dams like William Buzbee Dam becomes increasingly important in ensuring sustainable water management practices for the future.

Year Completed

1976

Dam Length

360

Dam Height

18

River Or Stream

ALEXANDER CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

7

Hydraulic Height

17

Nid Storage

60

Hazard Potential

Low

Foundations

Soil

Nid Height

18
       
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.