Carden Dam No. 2 Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 19, 2025

Carden Dam No.


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Summary

2, located in St. Tammany, Louisiana, is a privately owned earth dam built in 1984 primarily for recreational purposes. This dam stands at a height of 13 feet and has a hydraulic height of 10 feet, with a structural height of 14 feet. It spans a length of 375 feet and has a storage capacity of 72 acre-feet, with a normal storage level of 55 acre-feet. The dam is situated on Bills Creek and is regulated by the Louisiana Department of Transportation and Development.

Despite being classified with a low hazard potential, Carden Dam No. 2 is assessed to be in fair condition as of the last inspection in February 2019. The dam has an uncontrolled spillway with a width of 45 feet, ensuring proper water flow during excess inflow events. The risk assessment for the dam is rated as moderate, indicating a moderate level of concern for the structure's safety and stability. Emergency action plans and risk management measures for the dam appear to be under review or development, highlighting the importance of continued monitoring and maintenance.

For water resource and climate enthusiasts, Carden Dam No. 2 presents an interesting case study in recreational dam infrastructure in Louisiana. With its modest size and purpose, this dam serves as a valuable asset for local water management and outdoor activities. The dam's proximity to St. Tammany County and its role in regulating Bills Creek make it a significant feature in the regional water landscape. Ongoing inspections and risk assessments will be crucial in ensuring the continued safety and functionality of Carden Dam No. 2 for both recreational and regulatory purposes.

Year Completed

1984

Dam Length

375

Dam Height

13

River Or Stream

BILLS CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

11

Hydraulic Height

10

Drainage Area

2

Nid Storage

72

Structural Height

14

Hazard Potential

Low

Foundations

Soil

Nid Height

14
       
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.