Mark Sanders Dam Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 28, 2025
Mark Sanders Dam, located in Calhoun, Louisiana, along North Chenier Creek, is a privately-owned earth dam primarily used for recreational purposes.
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Summary
Standing at a height of 15 feet with a length of 620 feet, the dam has a storage capacity of 162 acre-feet and a surface area of 10.8 acres. Despite its low hazard potential and moderate risk assessment, the dam has not been rated for its condition since its last inspection in December 2009.
Managed by the Louisiana Department of Transportation and Development, the dam features an uncontrolled spillway with a width of 50 feet and is subject to state regulation, permitting, inspection, and enforcement. Its association with the Vicksburg District of the US Army Corps of Engineers ensures oversight and compliance with safety standards. While the dam has not undergone any modifications in recent years, its emergency action plan status and risk management measures remain unclear.
For water resource and climate enthusiasts, Mark Sanders Dam offers a unique opportunity to explore the intersection of water infrastructure, recreational activities, and environmental stewardship. With its tranquil surroundings and modest storage capacity, the dam serves as a reminder of the vital role that dams play in providing both leisure and protection to local communities. As efforts continue to assess and manage the risks associated with aging infrastructure, Mark Sanders Dam stands as a testament to the ongoing importance of sustainable water resource management in the face of a changing climate.
Dam Length |
620 |
Dam Height |
15 |
River Or Stream |
NORTH CHENIER CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
10.8 |
Nid Storage |
162 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Soil |
Nid Height |
15 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Bayou Lafourche Near Crew Lake
|
60cfs |
Boeuf River Nr Girard
|
155cfs |
Little Corney Bayou Near Lillie
|
98cfs |
Saline Bayou Near Lucky
|
27cfs |
Dugdemona River Near Joyce
|
50cfs |
Chemin-A-Haut Byu Nr Beekman
|
0cfs |
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.
Mark Sanders Dam