Frank Leach Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 25, 2025

Frank Leach Dam, located in Leesville, Louisiana, is a privately owned structure that serves as a recreational area for water resource and climate enthusiasts.


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Summary

Completed in 1983, this Earth-type dam stands at 25 feet high and spans 570 feet in length, with a maximum storage capacity of 235 acre-feet. The dam overlooks Beason Creek and is regulated by the Louisiana Department of Transportation and Development, ensuring its safety and compliance with state regulations.

Despite its low hazard potential and fair condition assessment, Frank Leach Dam poses a moderate risk due to its location and potential impact on the surrounding area. The dam features an uncontrolled spillway with a width of 110 feet, allowing for a maximum discharge of 90 cubic feet per second. Although no outlet gates or associated structures are present, the dam is inspected every five years to ensure its continued safety and functionality.

Overall, Frank Leach Dam provides a valuable recreational space while also serving as a crucial component of water resource management in Vernon Parish, Louisiana. With its scenic location and moderate risk assessment, the dam remains an important structure for both local residents and visitors to enjoy while also highlighting the importance of maintaining and monitoring our water resources in the face of changing climate conditions.

Year Completed

1983

Dam Length

570

Dam Height

25

River Or Stream

BEASON CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

19

Hydraulic Height

10

Drainage Area

0.6

Nid Storage

235

Structural Height

25

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.