Lake Chance Dam Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 5, 2025
Located in Saline County, Arkansas, Lake Chance Dam is a privately owned structure designed by USDA NRCS and completed in 1951.
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Summary
The dam, which spans 400 feet in length and stands at a height of 26 feet, serves primarily for recreational purposes on the Saline River. With a normal storage capacity of 98 acre-feet and a maximum storage of 138 acre-feet, the dam also plays a role in flood control with a maximum discharge of 349 cubic feet per second.
The dam's significant hazard potential and moderate risk assessment rating highlight the importance of regular inspections and maintenance. While the condition assessment is currently not rated, the dam is regulated by the Arkansas Natural Resources Commission and undergoes state inspections, permitting, and enforcement. Despite its uncontrolled spillway type, Lake Chance Dam continues to provide valuable recreational opportunities and contributes to the overall water resource management in the area.
Water resource and climate enthusiasts interested in the engineering and environmental aspects of dams will find Lake Chance Dam an intriguing structure to study. Its location in Benton, Arkansas, its unique design as an earth dam, and its history of construction by the Natural Resources Conservation Service add to the allure of this important water management feature. As efforts to address climate change and water conservation intensify, understanding the role of dams like Lake Chance Dam becomes increasingly crucial in ensuring sustainable water resource management for future generations.
Year Completed |
1951 |
Dam Length |
400 |
Dam Height |
26 |
River Or Stream |
SALINE RIVER-TR |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Hydraulic Height |
24 |
Drainage Area |
0.5 |
Nid Storage |
138 |
Structural Height |
26 |
Hazard Potential |
Significant |
Nid Height |
26 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
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.
Lake Chance Dam