Loch Mcwilliams Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 19, 2025

Loch Mcwilliams Dam, located in Covington, Louisiana, is a privately owned structure designed by Willis Palmer and completed in 1983.


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Summary

This earth dam, standing at 24 feet tall with a hydraulic height of 18 feet, serves as a vital resource for fish and wildlife in the area. With a storage capacity of 700 acre-feet and a normal storage level of 530 acre-feet, the dam covers a surface area of 59 acres and has a drainage area of 0.73 square miles.

The dam's spillway, characterized as uncontrolled with a width of 40 feet, is designed to handle a maximum discharge of 1950 cubic feet per second. The structure has been modified in 2012 for structural improvements, ensuring its continued functionality for fire protection, small fish ponds, and recreational purposes. Despite being classified as having a significant hazard potential, Loch Mcwilliams Dam is currently assessed as being in fair condition as of the last inspection in June 2018.

With its strategic location on the TR-Bills Creek, Loch Mcwilliams Dam plays a crucial role in water resource management in St. Tammany County. As a popular spot for fishing and wildlife observation, the dam's importance extends beyond its primary purpose as a fish and wildlife pond. By adhering to state regulations and undergoing regular inspections, the dam continues to be a valuable asset for the community, contributing to both environmental conservation and recreational opportunities.

Years Modified

2012 - Structural

Year Completed

1983

Dam Length

1107

Dam Height

24

River Or Stream

TR-BILLS CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

59

Hydraulic Height

18

Drainage Area

0.73

Nid Storage

700

Structural Height

26

Hazard Potential

Significant

Foundations

Soil

Nid Height

26
       
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.