With a concrete gravity structure reaching a height of 216 feet and a storage capacity of 1,983,000 acre-feet, the dam serves multiple purposes including flood risk reduction, hydroelectric power generation, and recreational activities on Norfork Lake. The dam's controlled spillway, with a width of 480 feet, helps regulate water flow and reduce the risk of downstream flooding.
Despite its successful performance history, Norfork Dam is classified as having a high hazard potential and a very high risk rating due to the potential impacts of extreme rainfall events and earthquakes. To mitigate these risks, the US Army Corps of Engineers has implemented a comprehensive risk management strategy that includes regular inspections, monitoring, and emergency response exercises. The dam also has an Emergency Action Plan in place to ensure the safety of downstream communities in the event of a flood. With ongoing risk reduction measures and close monitoring of weather forecasts, Norfork Dam remains a critical asset in safeguarding the surrounding areas from flooding incidents.
Year Completed |
1944 |
Dam Length |
2624 |
Dam Height |
216 |
River Or Stream |
NORTH FORK OF THE WHITE |
Primary Dam Type |
Concrete |
Surface Area |
22000 |
Hydraulic Height |
206 |
Drainage Area |
1806 |
Nid Storage |
1983000 |
Structural Height |
248 |
Hazard Potential |
High |
Foundations |
Rock |
Nid Height |
248 |
White River Near Norfork
|
2910cfs |
White River At Calico Rock
|
3450cfs |
North Sylamore Creek Near Fifty Six
|
5cfs |
Buffalo River Near Harriet
|
111cfs |
North Fork River Near Tecumseh
|
350cfs |
Bryant Creek Near Tecumseh
|
176cfs |