Dardanelle Lock And Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

The Dardanelle Lock and Dam, located on the Arkansas River in Pope, Arkansas, is a federal structure managed by the US Army Corps of Engineers.


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Summary

Completed in 1969, this concrete dam serves multiple purposes including navigation, hydroelectric power generation, recreation, and water supply. With a height of 71 feet and a length of 2683 feet, the dam has a storage capacity of 486,200 acre-feet and a maximum discharge rate of 1,500,000 cubic feet per second.

Despite its significant hazard potential, the dam is regularly inspected and has an Emergency Action Plan in place to address any potential risks. The USACE actively manages flood risks associated with the dam by monitoring its condition, prioritizing maintenance activities, and collaborating with local emergency managers to ensure preparedness and response capabilities. As a vital infrastructure on the Arkansas River, the Dardanelle Lock and Dam plays a crucial role in managing water levels, mitigating flood risks, and supporting various water resource management activities in the region.

Year Completed

1969

Dam Length

2683

Dam Height

71

River Or Stream

ARKANSAS

Primary Dam Type

Concrete

Surface Area

34300

Length Of Locks

600

Hydraulic Height

55

Drainage Area

153703

Nid Storage

486200

Structural Height

90

Hazard Potential

Significant

Foundations

Rock

Nid Height

90
       
Seasonal Comparison

Weather Forecast

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.