Douglas Smith Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Douglas Smith Dam, located in Bossier, Louisiana, is a privately owned structure that serves primarily for recreational purposes.


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Summary

Completed in 1982, this earth dam stands at a height of 19 feet and has a hydraulic height of 10 feet, with a total length of 630 feet. With a normal storage capacity of 83 acre-feet and a maximum storage capacity of 158 acre-feet, the dam offers a surface area of 16.6 acres for visitors to enjoy.

Managed by the Louisiana Department of Transportation and Development, the dam is regulated, permitted, inspected, and enforced by the state authorities to ensure its safety and functionality. Despite being classified as having a low hazard potential, the dam's condition is assessed as fair, with a moderate risk rating. The spillway type is uncontrolled, with a width of 40 feet, and the structure is situated along the tributary to Clear Lake, providing a picturesque setting for outdoor activities.

With its scenic location and recreational offerings, Douglas Smith Dam presents an inviting destination for water resource and climate enthusiasts. Its modest height and volume make it a safe and enjoyable spot for fishing, boating, and other leisure activities. As a well-maintained earth dam in a beautiful natural setting, it exemplifies the harmony between human-made infrastructure and environmental conservation.

Year Completed

1982

Dam Length

630

Dam Height

19

River Or Stream

TRIB TO CLEAR LAKE

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

16.6

Hydraulic Height

10

Drainage Area

2

Nid Storage

158

Structural Height

20

Hazard Potential

Low

Foundations

Soil

Nid Height

20
       
Seasonal Comparison

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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.