John H. Overton Lock And Dam Reservoir Report
Nearby: Wiggins Bayou Pond Beaver Lake
Last Updated: December 22, 2025
John H.
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Summary
Overton Lock and Dam, located on the Red River in Louisiana, is a federal structure managed by the US Army Corps of Engineers. Completed in 1987, this gravity dam serves primarily for navigation purposes but also supports recreation and water supply activities. With a structural height of 104 feet and a hydraulic height of 48 feet, the dam spans 914 feet in length and has a storage capacity of 67,500 acre-feet.
The dam features a controlled spillway with a width of 300 feet and a single lock measuring 685 feet in length and 84 feet in width. With a significant hazard potential, the dam is subject to regular inspections and risk management measures to ensure its structural integrity and address flood risks. The US Army Corps of Engineers continually monitors the dam's condition, engages with local emergency managers, and updates emergency action plans to mitigate potential hazards and protect downstream communities.
In the event of severe weather events or high water levels, the dam may release water to manage levels upstream or downstream. The risk management approach focuses on proactive maintenance, repair activities, and public awareness to support emergency preparedness. As a critical infrastructure on the Red River, John H. Overton Lock and Dam plays a crucial role in water resource management and flood control efforts in the region.
Year Completed |
1987 |
Dam Length |
914 |
River Or Stream |
RED RIVER |
Primary Dam Type |
Gravity |
Surface Area |
3750 |
Length Of Locks |
685 |
Hydraulic Height |
48 |
Drainage Area |
67458 |
Nid Storage |
67500 |
Structural Height |
104 |
Hazard Potential |
Significant |
Foundations |
Soil |
Nid Height |
104 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
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.
John H. Overton Lock And Dam