Bonchasse Dam Reservoir Report
Nearby: Hawg Heaven Pond Knoll Lake Dam
Last Updated: December 5, 2025
Bonchasse Dam, located in De Soto, Louisiana, is a privately owned structure designed by the USDA NRCS for the primary purpose of creating a Fish and Wildlife Pond.
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Summary
Completed in 2002, this earth dam stands at a height of 30 feet and has a storage capacity of 564 acre-feet, providing essential resources for local wildlife and recreational activities. The dam also serves as a critical component in water management, with a low hazard potential and fair condition assessment.
Managed by the Louisiana DOTD, Bonchasse Dam is situated on the Little Bayou Na Bonchasse, with a drainage area of 0.55 square miles and a maximum discharge capacity of 2365 cubic feet per second. The dam features an uncontrolled spillway with a width of 150 feet, ensuring proper water flow management during times of excess. Despite its moderate risk rating, the dam has undergone regular inspections, with the last assessment conducted in October 2016, highlighting its commitment to safety and structural integrity.
For water resource and climate enthusiasts, Bonchasse Dam presents a fascinating case study in sustainable water management and habitat preservation. As a vital structure for both wildlife and recreational use, the dam exemplifies the importance of balancing human needs with environmental conservation. With ongoing monitoring and risk management measures in place, Bonchasse Dam stands as a testament to responsible dam construction and operation in the face of changing climate dynamics and water resource challenges.
Year Completed |
2002 |
Dam Length |
750 |
Dam Height |
23 |
River Or Stream |
LITTLE BAYOU NA BONCHASSE |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
49 |
Hydraulic Height |
20 |
Drainage Area |
0.55 |
Nid Storage |
564 |
Structural Height |
30 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Soil |
Nid Height |
30 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Cypress Bayou Near Keithville
|
11cfs |
Bayou San Patricio Near Benson
|
29cfs |
Bayou Grand Cane Near Stanley
|
6cfs |
Red Chute Bayou At Sligo
|
55cfs |
Bayou Pierre Near Lake End
|
323cfs |
Sabine Rv Nr Carthage
|
9200cfs |
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.
Bonchasse Dam