Alvin Gray Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 19, 2025

Located in Beauregard, Louisiana, the Alvin Gray Dam is a private-owned structure on the Big Branch river, completed in 1986 for recreational purposes.


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Summary

Standing at 15 feet high with a hydraulic height of 8 feet, the dam spans 493 feet in length and has a storage capacity of 57 acre-feet. With a surface area of 7.6 acres and a low hazard potential, the dam is regulated and inspected by the Louisiana Department of Transportation and Development, ensuring its safety and fair condition.

The Alvin Gray Dam features an uncontrolled spillway with a width of 80 feet and is situated in a scenic location, making it a popular spot for outdoor enthusiasts looking to enjoy water-based recreational activities. The dam's moderate risk assessment and regular inspection schedule highlight the commitment to maintaining its integrity and ensuring public safety. With its earth and stone core construction, the Alvin Gray Dam serves as both a functional structure for water resource management and a picturesque destination for visitors seeking a peaceful retreat in nature.

As part of the New Orleans District, the Alvin Gray Dam plays a crucial role in managing water flow and providing a tranquil environment for recreation in the area. The dam's association with the Big Branch river and its low hazard potential showcase the balance between conservation and public enjoyment, making it a valuable asset for both water resource and climate enthusiasts. With its consistent inspections and fair condition assessment, the Alvin Gray Dam stands as a testament to responsible dam management and environmental stewardship in Louisiana.

Year Completed

1986

Dam Length

493

Dam Height

15

River Or Stream

BIG BRANCH

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

7.6

Hydraulic Height

8

Drainage Area

1

Nid Storage

57

Structural Height

15

Hazard Potential

Low

Foundations

Soil

Nid Height

15
       
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.