Bill Powell Dam No. 1 Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 10, 2025
Bill Powell Dam No.
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Summary
1, located in Marthaville, Louisiana, is a privately owned earth dam that serves primarily for recreation purposes. The dam stands at 18 feet tall and stretches 1,240 feet in length, impounding a maximum storage of 442.8 acre-feet in Rocks Creek. Despite its low hazard potential, the dam is rated in fair condition, with a moderate risk assessment score of 3.
Managed by the Louisiana Department of Transportation and Development, the dam is subject to state regulation, permitting, inspection, and enforcement. Its uncontrolled spillway and stone buttress core types contribute to its structural integrity. The dam's surface area of 24.6 acres provides a picturesque setting for outdoor activities, making it a popular destination for water resource and climate enthusiasts in Natchitoches County.
While Bill Powell Dam No. 1 has not been modified in recent years, regular inspections every five years help ensure its continued safe operation. With its scenic location and recreational opportunities, this dam offers both a functional water resource and an enjoyable outdoor experience for visitors in the Fort Worth District.
Dam Length |
1240 |
Dam Height |
18 |
River Or Stream |
ROCKS CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
24.6 |
Nid Storage |
442.8 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Soil |
Nid Height |
18 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
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.
Bill Powell Dam No. 1