Degray Dam - Saddle Dike Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Degray Dam - Saddle Dike, also known as Degray Lake, is a federal-owned structure located in Caddo Valley, Arkansas.


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Summary

Completed in 1969 by the US Army Corps of Engineers, the dam serves multiple purposes including flood risk reduction, hydroelectric power generation, recreation, and water supply. With a hydraulic height of 238 feet and a structural height of 243 feet, the dam plays a critical role in managing water levels and mitigating flood risks along the Caddo River.

The dam has a storage capacity of 1,377,100 acre-feet and a surface area of 13,400 acres, making it a vital component of the region's water resource infrastructure. Despite being classified as having a high hazard potential, the US Army Corps of Engineers actively manages dam-related flood risks through regular inspections, maintenance, and collaboration with local emergency managers. Additionally, the dam has an emergency action plan in place to guide responses in case of a dam-related emergency, ensuring the safety of surrounding communities and the structural integrity of the dam.

As a key feature in the Vicksburg District of the US Army Corps of Engineers, Degray Dam - Saddle Dike exemplifies the agency's commitment to sound risk management practices and proactive measures to address potential hazards. By continuously monitoring and addressing potential risks, the dam serves as a crucial asset for water resource management and climate resilience in the region.

Year Completed

1969

Dam Length

3400

River Or Stream

CADDO RIVER

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

13400

Hydraulic Height

238

Drainage Area

453

Nid Storage

1377100

Structural Height

243

Hazard Potential

High

Nid Height

243
       
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.