Murray Lock And Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Murray Lock and Dam, also known as Pool 7, is a federal-owned structure located in Little Rock, Arkansas, along the Arkansas River.


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Summary

Completed in 1969, this concrete gravity dam serves multiple purposes including navigation, hydroelectric power generation, and recreation. With a height of 23 feet and a length of 3740 feet, the dam has a storage capacity of 108,500 acre-feet and a maximum discharge rate of 416,000 cubic feet per second.

The dam is equipped with a controlled spillway and a single lock that is 600 feet long and 110 feet wide. The risk assessment for Murray Lock and Dam indicates a very high risk level, with the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (USACE) actively managing flood risks by monitoring and maintaining the dam's structural integrity. USACE also collaborates with local emergency managers to develop emergency action plans and ensure readiness in case of a dam-related emergency. Regular inspections and maintenance are carried out to mitigate risks and ensure the safety of the surrounding communities.

Overall, Murray Lock and Dam plays a crucial role in water resource management and flood control along the Arkansas River. As a key infrastructure managed by USACE, it underscores the importance of proactive risk management and emergency preparedness in safeguarding communities and infrastructure from potential hazards associated with dam operations.

Year Completed

1969

Dam Length

3740

Dam Height

23

River Or Stream

ARKANSAS

Primary Dam Type

Concrete

Surface Area

9700

Length Of Locks

600

Hydraulic Height

22

Drainage Area

158030

Nid Storage

108500

Structural Height

77

Hazard Potential

Significant

Foundations

Rock

Nid Height

77
       
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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.