John Moore Dam Reservoir Report
Nearby: Kelly Pond Rand Knotts Dam
Last Updated: December 10, 2025
John Moore Dam, located in Vernon, Louisiana, is a privately owned structure regulating the flow of Castor Creek.
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Summary
This earth dam, standing at 12 feet in height and stretching 995 feet in length, serves primarily for recreational purposes. With a storage capacity of 750 acre-feet and a surface area of 62.5 acres, the dam is designed with buttress and stone cores supported by a soil foundation. Despite being classified as having a low hazard potential, the dam's condition assessment remains unrated as of its last inspection in February 2003.
Managed by the Louisiana Department of Transportation and Development, John Moore Dam is subject to state regulation, inspection, and enforcement. Although the dam poses a moderate risk, with a risk assessment rating of 3 out of 5, it does not fall under the jurisdiction of the US Army Corps of Engineers. The dam features an uncontrolled spillway and has no associated locks or outlet gates. While it has not undergone any modifications since its completion, the structure's emergency action plan status, inundation maps, and risk management measures are not explicitly documented as of the latest data update in April 2021.
Water resource and climate enthusiasts intrigued by the intricate details of dam infrastructure will find John Moore Dam to be an interesting case study. Its location in the picturesque setting of Jackson, Louisiana, along with its unique design elements, storage capacity, and risk profile, offer a compelling narrative for those interested in the intersection of water management, engineering, and environmental stewardship. The dam's historical background, maintenance practices, and future development potential may also spark discussions on sustainable water resource management strategies in the region.
Dam Length |
995 |
Dam Height |
12 |
River Or Stream |
CASTOR CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
62.5 |
Drainage Area |
2 |
Nid Storage |
750 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Soil |
Nid Height |
12 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Saline Bayou Near Lucky
|
38cfs |
Dugdemona River Near Joyce
|
248cfs |
Little Corney Bayou Near Lillie
|
169cfs |
Bayou Lafourche Near Crew Lake
|
625cfs |
Boeuf River Nr Girard
|
42cfs |
Little River Near Rochelle
|
506cfs |
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.
Area Campgrounds
| Location | Reservations | Toilets |
|---|---|---|
Group Camp
|
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Jimmie Davis State Park
|
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North Boat Launch
|
John Moore Dam