Red River Lock And Dam 3 Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 9, 2025

Red River Lock and Dam 3, also known as Lock No.3, is a federal structure located in Colfax, Louisiana, along the Red River.


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Summary

Completed in 1991 by the US Army Corps of Engineers, this gravity dam serves primarily for navigation purposes but also supports recreation and water supply. With a hydraulic height of 63 feet and a structural height of 134 feet, the dam spans 866 feet in length and has a storage capacity of 108,500 acre-feet.

This significant dam, with a spillway width of 360 feet and controlled spillway type, plays a crucial role in managing water levels and mitigating flood risks in the region. Despite its very high risk assessment rating, the USACE actively monitors and maintains the dam to ensure its structural integrity and reduce potential hazards. Emergency action plans are regularly updated, and risk management measures are in place to engage with local authorities and the public, emphasizing preparedness and response in case of dam-related emergencies.

In light of its importance for water resource management and flood control, the Red River Lock and Dam 3 stands as a vital infrastructure project managed by the US Army Corps of Engineers. As climate change continues to impact water systems, the ongoing monitoring and maintenance of this dam are essential to safeguarding the surrounding communities and ensuring the sustainable use of this critical water resource.

Year Completed

1991

Dam Length

866

River Or Stream

RED RIVER

Primary Dam Type

Gravity

Surface Area

9500

Length Of Locks

685

Hydraulic Height

63

Drainage Area

66060

Nid Storage

108500

Structural Height

134

Hazard Potential

Significant

Foundations

Soil

Nid Height

134
       
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.