Billy Penny Dam Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 20, 2025
Located in Evangeline, Louisiana, the Billy Penny Dam is a privately owned earth dam designed by the USDA NRCS with a primary purpose of recreation.
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Summary
Completed in 1940, this dam stands at 13 feet high and spans 850 feet in length, holding a maximum storage capacity of 96 acre-feet. Situated on Cypress Creek, this dam features an uncontrolled spillway with a width of 135 feet and a low hazard potential.
Despite its historical significance, the Billy Penny Dam is currently in poor condition according to a 2019 assessment. The dam, with a hydraulic height of 11 feet, is inspected every five years by the Louisiana Department of Transportation and Development. While its risk assessment is moderate, the dam lacks an emergency action plan and updated contact information, raising concerns about its ability to respond effectively to potential hazards. With a surface area of 17.4 acres, the dam serves as a recreational spot in Beaver, Louisiana, attracting water resource and climate enthusiasts alike.
As climate change continues to impact water resources, the Billy Penny Dam serves as a reminder of the importance of maintaining and monitoring infrastructure for both recreational and safety purposes. With a state-regulated and permitted status, this dam on Cypress Creek plays a vital role in the local ecosystem and provides a valuable opportunity for outdoor recreation. Efforts to improve the dam's condition and emergency preparedness will be crucial in ensuring its long-term sustainability and resilience in the face of changing environmental conditions.
Year Completed |
1940 |
Dam Length |
850 |
Dam Height |
11 |
River Or Stream |
CYPRESS CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
17.4 |
Hydraulic Height |
11 |
Nid Storage |
96 |
Structural Height |
13 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Soil |
Nid Height |
13 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Calcasieu River Nr Glenmora
|
108cfs |
Bayou Cocodrie Nr Clearwater
|
94cfs |
Calcasieu River Near Oberlin
|
88cfs |
Whiskey Chitto Creek Near Oberlin
|
237cfs |
Bayou Des Cannes Nr Eunice
|
8cfs |
Bayou Nezpique Near Basile
|
104cfs |
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.
Billy Penny Dam