Donna Kemp Dam Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 17, 2025
Donna Kemp Dam, located in Washington, Louisiana, is a private earth dam primarily used for recreational purposes.
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Summary
Completed in 1984, this 17-foot high structure has a storage capacity of 121 acre-feet and spans 500 feet across Gorman Creek. Despite its low hazard potential, the dam's condition assessment is rated as poor, indicating a need for maintenance and repairs.
Managed by the Louisiana Department of Transportation and Development, Donna Kemp Dam is subject to state regulations, inspections, and enforcement measures. The dam features an uncontrolled spillway with a width of 28 feet and a maximum discharge of 75 cubic feet per second. While the risk assessment categorizes the dam as moderate, with a condition assessment of poor, it is crucial to prioritize necessary improvements to ensure the safety and longevity of the structure for both recreational and environmental purposes.
With a captivating location in the picturesque city of Richardson, Donna Kemp Dam presents an opportunity for water resource and climate enthusiasts to explore the intersection of human-made infrastructure and natural ecosystems. As efforts are made to address the dam's maintenance needs, there is a chance to enhance the resilience of this vital water resource in Louisiana's landscape.
Year Completed |
1984 |
Dam Length |
500 |
Dam Height |
17 |
River Or Stream |
GORMAN CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
14.2 |
Hydraulic Height |
15 |
Drainage Area |
2 |
Nid Storage |
121 |
Structural Height |
17 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Soil |
Nid Height |
17 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Tchefuncta River Near Folsom
|
68cfs |
Tangipahoa River At Osyka
|
180cfs |
Bogue Chitto River Near Bush
|
813cfs |
Tangipahoa River At Robert
|
486cfs |
Pearl River Near Bogalusa
|
2380cfs |
Bogue Chitto Nr Tylertown
|
318cfs |
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.
Donna Kemp Dam