Robert Mears Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 11, 2025

Robert Mears Dam, located in Union, Louisiana, is a private-owned structure primarily used for irrigation purposes along the Briny Bridge Creek.


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Summary

This earth dam stands at a height of 18 feet with a hydraulic height of 16 feet, providing a storage capacity of 179 acre-feet. The dam spans 532 feet in length and has a spillway width of 75 feet for uncontrolled water release.

Despite its low hazard potential and fair condition assessment, Robert Mears Dam is subject to regular inspection by the Louisiana Department of Transportation and Development. The dam's risk assessment indicates a moderate level of risk, prompting the need for continued monitoring and potential risk management measures. With a history of state regulation and enforcement, this dam plays a crucial role in supporting irrigation and recreation activities in the region.

Enthusiasts of water resources and climate will find Robert Mears Dam to be an essential infrastructure contributing to water management in Louisiana. Its location, design features, and operational purposes make it a significant asset in the region, highlighting the importance of sustainable dam management practices to ensure long-term safety and efficiency for water users and the surrounding environment.

Dam Length

532

Dam Height

18

River Or Stream

BRINY BRIDGE CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

19.9

Hydraulic Height

16

Nid Storage

179

Structural Height

18

Hazard Potential

Low

Foundations

Soil

Nid Height

18
       
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.