Bivans Lake Dam Reservoir Report
Nearby: W C Swaffar's Dam Lake Bennett Dam
Last Updated: December 5, 2025
Bivans Lake Dam, located in Faulkner, Arkansas, was completed in 1945 by the USDA NRCS for the primary purposes of fire protection, stock, and small fish pond.
°F
°F
mph
Wind
%
Humidity
Summary
This earth dam stands at a height of 15 feet with a hydraulic height of 11 feet and a length of 354 feet, creating a storage capacity of 114 acre-feet. The dam is situated on Fairview Creek, serving as a vital resource for water management in the area and providing recreational opportunities for the community.
Despite being privately owned, Bivans Lake Dam falls under the jurisdiction of the state of Arkansas and is not regulated or inspected by state agencies. The dam's hazard potential is classified as low, with a moderate risk assessment rating of 3. Although the condition of the dam is currently not rated, the risk management measures for this structure are not specified. With its uncontrolled spillway type and no associated locks or gates, Bivans Lake Dam remains a significant asset for water conservation and environmental protection in the region.
Overall, Bivans Lake Dam is a noteworthy infrastructure built for multiple purposes, including fire protection and recreation, while also serving as a small fish pond. With its historical significance dating back to 1945, this earth dam continues to play a crucial role in water storage and management in Faulkner County. Despite its low hazard potential, ongoing risk assessments and management measures are essential to ensure the safety and longevity of this important water resource for the local community and surrounding areas.
Year Completed |
1945 |
Dam Length |
354 |
Dam Height |
15 |
River Or Stream |
FAIRVIEW CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Hydraulic Height |
11 |
Nid Storage |
114 |
Structural Height |
15 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Nid Height |
15 |
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.
Bivans Lake Dam