Magnuson Hotel Dam Reservoir Report
Nearby: Linda Flynn Dam William Buzbee Dam
Last Updated: December 21, 2025
Magnuson Hotel Dam, located in St.
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Summary
Francisville, Louisiana, stands as a crucial water resource structure along Gaspers Creek. Owned privately, this earth-type dam serves a primary purpose beyond the typical flood control or water supply functions. With a significant hazard potential and an unsatisfactory condition assessment, the dam's last inspection in August 2018 highlighted the need for improvements to ensure its safety and longevity.
Standing at 17 feet tall and with a storage capacity of 58.65 acre-feet, Magnuson Hotel Dam plays a critical role in managing water levels and protecting the surrounding area from potential flooding. Despite its earth and stone construction, the dam's spillway remains uncontrolled, adding an element of unpredictability to its operations. However, with a moderate risk assessment rating and regular inspections by the Louisiana Department of Transportation and Development, efforts are being made to mitigate any potential risks associated with the dam.
As climate change continues to impact water resources and infrastructure, the maintenance and upkeep of structures like Magnuson Hotel Dam become increasingly vital. With a comprehensive understanding of its design, purpose, and condition, water resource and climate enthusiasts can advocate for necessary improvements to ensure the safety and reliability of this essential piece of Louisiana's water management system.
Dam Length |
480 |
Dam Height |
17 |
River Or Stream |
GASPERS CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
6.9 |
Hydraulic Height |
14 |
Drainage Area |
0.09 |
Nid Storage |
58.65 |
Structural Height |
17 |
Outlet Gates |
None |
Hazard Potential |
Significant |
Foundations |
Soil |
Nid Height |
17 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Comite River Near Olive Branch
|
65cfs |
Mississippi River At Baton Rouge
|
152000cfs |
Comite River Near Comite
|
142cfs |
(Coe) Atchafalaya River At Simmesport
|
65700cfs |
Buffalo River Nr Woodville
|
49cfs |
Amite River Near Denham Springs
|
636cfs |
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.
Magnuson Hotel Dam