Spike James Dam Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 22, 2025
Located in St.
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Summary
Francisville, Louisiana, the Spike James Dam is a private-owned structure that serves as a recreational hub on the TR-Tunica Swamp. Standing at a height of 36 feet with a hydraulic height of 18 feet, it was completed in 1976 and offers a storage capacity of 1080 acre-feet. The dam's primary purpose is for recreation, attracting water resource and climate enthusiasts to its serene surroundings.
Despite being classified as having a low hazard potential and fair condition assessment, the Spike James Dam poses a very high risk, according to evaluations. It is regulated by the Louisiana Department of Transportation and Development and undergoes regular inspections to ensure its safety and functionality. The controlled spillway type and earth dam construction make it a key feature in the region's water management system, with a drainage area of 0.5 square miles and a surface area of 60 acres.
With its picturesque location and vital role in water resource management, the Spike James Dam stands as a testament to human innovation and the harmonious relationship between infrastructure and nature. Its ability to provide recreational opportunities while maintaining water quality and quantity highlights the importance of sustainable development practices in the face of climate change challenges. For water resource and climate enthusiasts, the dam serves as both a marvel of engineering and a reminder of the delicate balance needed to protect our environment for future generations.
Year Completed |
1976 |
Dam Length |
450 |
Dam Height |
36 |
River Or Stream |
TR-TUNICA SWAMP |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
60 |
Hydraulic Height |
18 |
Drainage Area |
0.5 |
Nid Storage |
1080 |
Structural Height |
38 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Soil |
Nid Height |
38 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
(Coe) Atchafalaya River At Simmesport
|
66100cfs |
Comite River Near Olive Branch
|
65cfs |
Buffalo River Nr Woodville
|
50cfs |
Bayou Des Glaises Diversion Ch. At Moreauville
|
68cfs |
Mississippi River At Baton Rouge
|
146000cfs |
Comite River Near Comite
|
142cfs |
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.
Spike James Dam