Russell B. Long Lock And Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 9, 2025

Russell B.


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Summary

Long Lock and Dam, located in Powhatan, Louisiana, on the Red River, is a federal structure managed by the US Army Corps of Engineers. Completed in 1995 for the primary purpose of navigation, this gravity dam stands at 110 feet tall and spans 681 feet in length. With a hydraulic height of 58 feet, it boasts a controlled spillway width of 300 feet and a maximum discharge capacity of 227,400 cubic feet per second.

This significant dam, with a storage capacity of 70,500 acre-feet, serves multiple purposes, including navigation, recreation, and water supply. Its risk assessment is classified as very high, prompting the USACE to implement rigorous risk management measures to ensure the dam's structural integrity and address flood risks associated with severe weather events. Regular maintenance, monitoring, and emergency action planning are key strategies employed to mitigate potential hazards and safeguard the surrounding community.

As water resource and climate enthusiasts, the Russell B. Long Lock and Dam offers a fascinating glimpse into the intricate balance between water management, infrastructure, and environmental protection. With its strategic location on the Red River and crucial role in navigation and flood control, this federal structure exemplifies the careful planning and proactive measures needed to sustainably manage water resources in a changing climate.

Year Completed

1995

Dam Length

681

River Or Stream

RED RIVER

Primary Dam Type

Gravity

Surface Area

7500

Length Of Locks

685

Hydraulic Height

58

Drainage Area

63350

Nid Storage

70500

Structural Height

110

Hazard Potential

Significant

Foundations

Soil

Nid Height

110
       
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.