Bushley Bayou Dam Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 22, 2025
Bushley Bayou Dam, located in Catahoula, Louisiana, is a local government-owned structure that serves primarily for recreational purposes.
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Summary
Completed in 1960, this earth dam stands at a height of 32 feet and has a hydraulic height of 12 feet, with a length of 815 feet. The dam has a storage capacity of 5,016 acre-feet and covers a surface area of 437 acres, providing essential water resources for the region.
With the Brushley Bayou flowing nearby, the dam plays a crucial role in managing water flow, with a maximum discharge capacity of 1,440 cubic feet per second. The dam's spillway type is uncontrolled, with a width of 80 feet, and its hazard potential is classified as low, with a fair condition assessment as of the last inspection in September 2018. While the risk assessment is moderate, the dam is regulated by the Louisiana Department of Transportation and Development, ensuring that it meets state permitting, inspection, and enforcement standards to maintain its structural integrity and safety for both recreational and environmental purposes.
As a key part of the water infrastructure in the area, Bushley Bayou Dam stands as a testament to responsible water resource management and climate resilience. With its design aimed at providing recreational opportunities while also safeguarding against potential hazards, the dam serves as a vital component in the region's water management strategy. Its continued maintenance and adherence to regulatory standards underscore the importance of sustainable practices in preserving water resources and adapting to the challenges of a changing climate.
Year Completed |
1960 |
Dam Length |
815 |
Dam Height |
32 |
River Or Stream |
BRUSHLEY BAYOU |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
437 |
Hydraulic Height |
12 |
Drainage Area |
13.1 |
Nid Storage |
5016 |
Structural Height |
32 |
Outlet Gates |
Needle - 0 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Soil |
Nid Height |
32 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Little River Near Rochelle
|
132cfs |
Big Creek At Pollock
|
19cfs |
Buffalo River Nr Woodville
|
49cfs |
Dugdemona River Near Joyce
|
72cfs |
Bayou Des Glaises Diversion Ch. At Moreauville
|
70cfs |
Boeuf River Nr Girard
|
145cfs |
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.
Bushley Bayou Dam