Old River Reservoir Report
Last Updated: January 12, 2026
Old River, also known as Sidney A.
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Summary
Murray, Jr., is a privately owned hydroelectric dam located in Morgan City, Louisiana, along the Mississippi River. Built in 1990 by EBASCO Constructors, this concrete dam stands at a height of 134.3 feet and serves multiple purposes including fish and wildlife pond management. With a drainage area of 1,250,000 square miles, Old River plays a critical role in regulating water flow and providing renewable energy in the region.
Managed by the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission, Old River has a high hazard potential due to its structural features and location. While the dam has not undergone recent condition assessment, emergency action plans have been updated periodically to ensure public safety in case of any mishaps. Despite its high risk, Old River remains a key component of the local water resource infrastructure and contributes significantly to the region's hydroelectric power generation capabilities.
As an essential component of the water management system in Louisiana, Old River serves as a testament to the balance between harnessing natural resources for energy production and ensuring environmental conservation. With its strategic location along the Mississippi River, this dam not only provides hydroelectric power but also supports local wildlife habitats and water management initiatives. As climate change brings about more extreme weather events, the importance of infrastructure like Old River in safeguarding water resources and mitigating the impacts of climate change becomes increasingly evident.
Year Completed |
1990 |
Dam Length |
1004 |
Dam Height |
134.3 |
River Or Stream |
Mississippi River |
Primary Dam Type |
Concrete |
Hydraulic Height |
72 |
Drainage Area |
1250000 |
Structural Height |
132.3 |
Hazard Potential |
High |
Foundations |
Soil |
Nid Height |
134 |
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.
Old River