Ben Johnson Dam Reservoir Report
Nearby: Shelter Lake Dam Lake Haven Dam
Last Updated: December 6, 2025
Ben Johnson Dam, located in Mansfield, Louisiana, along Bayou Na Bonchase, is a private earth dam primarily designed for recreation purposes.
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Summary
Standing at 8 feet high and stretching 550 feet in length, the dam has a storage capacity of 77.4 acre-feet and covers a surface area of 9.67 acres. Managed by the Louisiana Department of Transportation and Development, the dam is regulated, inspected, and enforced by state authorities to ensure its safety and functionality.
With a low hazard potential and fair condition assessment, Ben Johnson Dam poses a moderate risk level, which indicates a need for ongoing monitoring and risk management measures. Despite its modest size, the dam plays a vital role in providing recreational opportunities and water resource management in the area. Its uncontrolled spillway and soil foundation make it a unique structure that adds to the natural landscape of De Soto Parish.
For water resource and climate enthusiasts, Ben Johnson Dam serves as a fascinating example of how private infrastructure can contribute to the local community's well-being while also presenting challenges in terms of risk management and maintenance. As climate change continues to impact water resources, dams like Ben Johnson play a crucial role in ensuring water availability and mitigating risks associated with extreme weather events. By staying vigilant and proactive in their stewardship of this vital resource, stakeholders can help preserve the dam's functionality for future generations to enjoy.
Dam Length |
550 |
Dam Height |
8 |
River Or Stream |
BAYOU NA BONCHASE |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
9.67 |
Nid Storage |
77.4 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Soil |
Nid Height |
8 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Bayou San Patricio Near Benson
|
29cfs |
Bayou Grand Cane Near Stanley
|
6cfs |
Cypress Bayou Near Keithville
|
11cfs |
Bayou Pierre Near Lake End
|
323cfs |
Red Chute Bayou At Sligo
|
55cfs |
Sabine Rv Nr Carthage
|
9200cfs |
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.
Ben Johnson Dam