Bayou Bonne Idee Lower Dam Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 19, 2025
Bayou Bonne Idee Lower Dam, also known as Bull Chute, is a recreational earth dam located in Morehouse, Louisiana.
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Summary
Completed in 1976, this dam serves as a vital resource for water storage, with a normal storage capacity of 2200 acre-feet and a maximum storage capacity of 4800 acre-feet. The dam spans 450 feet in length and stands at a height of 20 feet, providing a surface area of 370 acres for outdoor enthusiasts to enjoy.
Managed by the local government and regulated by the Louisiana Department of Transportation and Development, Bayou Bonne Idee Lower Dam boasts a low hazard potential and fair condition assessment. With a moderate risk assessment rating of 3, the dam is inspected every five years to ensure its structural integrity and safety for the surrounding community. The dam features an uncontrolled spillway with a width of 120 feet, allowing for a maximum discharge of 7000 cubic feet per second in case of overflow.
For water resource and climate enthusiasts, Bayou Bonne Idee Lower Dam offers a glimpse into the intersection of engineering, conservation, and recreation. As a key element in the local water management infrastructure, this dam plays a crucial role in providing water storage for the region while also serving as a popular destination for outdoor activities such as fishing, boating, and wildlife observation. Its strategic design and maintenance ensure the safety and sustainability of the surrounding ecosystem, making it a valuable asset in the fight against climate change and water scarcity.
Year Completed |
1976 |
Dam Length |
450 |
Dam Height |
20 |
River Or Stream |
BAYOU BONNE IDEE |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
370 |
Hydraulic Height |
20 |
Drainage Area |
71 |
Nid Storage |
4800 |
Structural Height |
20 |
Outlet Gates |
Needle - 0 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Soil |
Nid Height |
20 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Boeuf River Nr Girard
|
127cfs |
Bayou Lafourche Near Crew Lake
|
94cfs |
Tensas River At Tendal
|
18cfs |
Bayou Bartholomew Near Jones
|
302cfs |
Chemin-A-Haut Byu Nr Beekman
|
0cfs |
Bayou Macon Nr Kilbourne
|
29cfs |
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.
Bayou Bonne Idee Lower Dam