Lake Bistineau Near Ringgold Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Lake Bistineau is a popular recreational lake located near Ringgold, LA in Louisiana.


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Summary

The lake was created by the damming of Dorcheat Bayou in the 1800s to provide power to local sawmills. The hydrology of the lake is influenced by two main sources of water: surface flow from Dorcheat Bayou and surrounding creeks, and precipitation and snowmelt from the Red River Basin. The lake provides water for agricultural irrigation and serves as a habitat for a variety of wildlife species, including fish, birds, and alligators. Recreational activities include fishing, boating, and camping. However, the lake is currently facing environmental challenges such as invasive species and pollution, which threaten the health of the ecosystem.

Reservoir Details

Lake Or Reservoir Water Surface Elevation Above Ngvd 1929, Ft 24hr Change 0.07%
Percent of Normal 100%
Minimum 133.19 ft
2023-10-26
Maximum 144.61 ft
2021-03-06
Average 135 ft
Dam_Height 27
Hydraulic_Height 27
Drainage_Area 1410
Year_Completed 1941
Nid_Storage 318000
Structural_Height 46
River_Or_Stream LOGGY BAYOU
Foundations Soil
Surface_Area 17200
Hazard_Potential High
Outlet_Gates Slide (sluice gate)
Dam_Length 7500
Primary_Dam_Type Earth
Nid_Height 46
       
Seasonal Comparison
Gage Height, Ft Levels
Lake Or Reservoir Water Surface Elevation Above Ngvd 1929, Ft Levels

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.