Bayou Bonne Idee Upper Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 18, 2025

Located in Morehouse, Louisiana, the Bayou Bonne Idee Upper Dam, also known as Goatwalk Dam, is a recreational earth dam completed in 1955.


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Summary

With a height of 25 feet and a length of 500 feet, the dam holds a maximum storage capacity of 6,100 acre-feet and covers a surface area of 470 acres. The dam, situated on the Bayou Bonne Idee river, serves as a popular spot for outdoor enthusiasts looking to engage in recreational activities.

Managed by the local government and regulated by the Louisiana Department of Transportation and Development, the Bayou Bonne Idee Upper Dam has a low hazard potential and is in fair condition as of the last inspection in August 2018. Despite its moderate risk assessment rating, the dam meets regulatory guidelines and has emergency action plans in place to ensure the safety of nearby residents and visitors. The dam's uncontrolled spillway, with a width of 70 feet, helps manage excess water flow during periods of high discharge.

For water resource and climate enthusiasts, the Bayou Bonne Idee Upper Dam is a noteworthy structure that not only provides recreational opportunities but also serves as a vital component of the local ecosystem. With its rich history and importance in water management, this dam stands as a testament to the intersection of human ingenuity and environmental stewardship in the face of changing climate conditions.

Year Completed

1955

Dam Length

500

Dam Height

25

River Or Stream

BAYOU BONNE IDEE

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

470

Hydraulic Height

25

Drainage Area

29

Nid Storage

6100

Structural Height

25

Outlet Gates

Needle - 0

Hazard Potential

Low

Foundations

Soil

Nid Height

25
       
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.