Joe D. Waggonner Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

The Joe D.


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Summary

Waggonner, Jr. Lock and Dam, located on the Red River in Louisiana, was completed in 1985 by the US Army Corps of Engineers for the primary purpose of navigation. This gravity dam, with a hydraulic height of 53 feet and a structural height of 122 feet, plays a crucial role in managing water levels and ensuring safe navigation along the river. With a spillway width of 550 feet and a controlled spillway type, the dam also serves recreational and water supply purposes for the surrounding area.

With a significant hazard potential and a very high risk assessment rating, the US Army Corps of Engineers closely monitors and manages flood risks associated with the dam. Regular inspections and maintenance activities are conducted to ensure the structural integrity of the dam and to address any potential issues that may arise. The Corps works collaboratively with local emergency managers and the public to raise awareness about the dam and to develop emergency action plans in case of a dam-related emergency. Overall, the Joe D. Waggonner, Jr. Lock and Dam stands as a vital infrastructure for water resource management and climate resilience in the region.

Year Completed

1985

Dam Length

2063

River Or Stream

RED RIVER

Primary Dam Type

Gravity

Surface Area

2620

Length Of Locks

685

Hydraulic Height

53

Drainage Area

67550

Nid Storage

59900

Structural Height

122

Hazard Potential

Significant

Foundations

Soil

Nid Height

122
       
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.