Lake Santa Maria Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 25, 2025

Lake Santa Maria Dam, located in East Baton Rouge, Louisiana, is a private-owned structure primarily used for recreational purposes.


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Summary

Standing at a height of 13 feet with a hydraulic height of 11 feet, this earth dam with a buttress core type spans a length of 470 feet and has a storage capacity of 217 acre-feet. The dam overlooks the tranquil TR - Bayou Manchac, offering a picturesque setting for outdoor enthusiasts to enjoy activities such as fishing, boating, and birdwatching.

Despite being deemed in fair condition during its last assessment in January 2019, the hazard potential of Lake Santa Maria Dam remains undetermined, with a moderate risk assessment rating of 3. The dam features an uncontrolled spillway with a width of 68 feet and lacks outlet gates. While the structure is not under the jurisdiction of any federal agency, it is regulated by the Louisiana Department of Transportation and Development and undergoes regular inspections to ensure its safety and integrity.

Water resource and climate enthusiasts will appreciate the serene beauty and recreational opportunities that Lake Santa Maria Dam provides, while also recognizing the importance of ongoing maintenance and risk management efforts to safeguard the surrounding ecosystem and community. With its idyllic location and essential role in water management, this dam serves as a vital asset in preserving the natural landscape and supporting sustainable outdoor recreation in the region.

Dam Length

470

Dam Height

13

River Or Stream

TR - BAYOU MANCHAC

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

25

Hydraulic Height

11

Nid Storage

217

Structural Height

13

Outlet Gates

None

Hazard Potential

Undetermined

Foundations

Soil

Nid Height

13
       
Seasonal Comparison

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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.