Little Darbonne Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 11, 2025

The Little Darbonne Dam, located in Ouachita, Louisiana, is a private earth dam primarily used for recreation.


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Summary

Completed in 1964, this dam stands at a height of 23 feet and has a hydraulic height of 20 feet. With a length of 500 feet and a storage capacity of 617.5 acre-feet, the dam serves as a popular spot for outdoor activities such as fishing and boating.

Managed by the Louisiana Department of Transportation and Development, the Little Darbonne Dam has a significant hazard potential but is currently assessed to be in fair condition. The dam features an uncontrolled spillway with a width of 50 feet, ensuring proper water flow during times of excess rainfall. Despite its moderate risk assessment, the dam remains a key resource for water supply and climate enthusiasts in the region.

With its picturesque location on the TR-North Tupawek Bayou, the Little Darbonne Dam offers a tranquil setting for visitors to enjoy the beauty of nature while engaging in various recreational activities. As a vital infrastructure for water resource management, the dam symbolizes the harmonious coexistence of human civilization and the environment, making it a must-visit destination for those passionate about preserving our natural resources in the face of climate change.

Year Completed

1964

Dam Length

500

Dam Height

23

River Or Stream

TR-NORTH TUPAWEK BAYOU

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

24.7

Hydraulic Height

20

Nid Storage

617.5

Structural Height

23

Hazard Potential

Significant

Foundations

Soil

Nid Height

23
       
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.