Lock And Dam No 6 Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 20, 2025

Lock and Dam No 6 is a federal structure located on the Ouachita River in Union, Arkansas.


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Summary

Completed in 1913, this gravity dam serves primarily for navigation purposes, helping to control water levels and facilitate the passage of boats along the river. With a hydraulic height of 20 feet and a structural height of 26 feet, Lock and Dam No 6 plays a crucial role in regulating water flow and maximizing the storage capacity of the river.

Although the dam is considered to have a low hazard potential, its condition assessment is currently marked as "Not Rated," with the last inspection date dating back to 1990. Despite this, Lock and Dam No 6 continues to operate efficiently, with a maximum discharge capacity of 13,000 cubic feet per second and a normal storage capacity of 27,600 acre-feet. The structure's association with the Vicksburg District of the US Army Corps of Engineers underscores its importance in water resource management and climate resilience efforts in the region.

In addition to its functional significance, Lock and Dam No 6 also holds historical value as a testament to early 20th-century engineering achievements. Situated in a picturesque location along the Ouachita River, this landmark continues to stand as a testament to the innovative approaches taken to harness water resources for navigation purposes. As water resource and climate enthusiasts, exploring the rich history and operational significance of Lock and Dam No 6 can provide valuable insights into the intersection of human ingenuity and environmental stewardship.

Year Completed

1913

Dam Length

357

River Or Stream

OUACHITA RIVER

Primary Dam Type

Gravity

Hydraulic Height

20

Nid Storage

37700

Structural Height

26

Hazard Potential

Low

Nid Height

26
       
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.