Greers Ferry Dam - Saddle Dike 1 Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Greers Ferry Dam - Saddle Dike 1, also known as Greers Ferry Lake, is a federal-owned earth dam located in Heber Springs, Arkansas.


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Summary

Completed in 1962, it stands at a height of 98 feet and has a maximum storage capacity of 2,844,000 acre-feet. The primary purpose of the dam is flood risk reduction, but it also serves multiple other functions such as fish and wildlife pond, hydroelectric power generation, irrigation, recreation, and water supply.

The dam is managed by the US Army Corps of Engineers, who are responsible for its design, construction, regulation, inspection, and operations. With a hazard potential rated as high, the dam has an emergency action plan in place and meets guidelines for risk assessment and management. USACE continuously monitors the condition of the dam, prioritizes activities to mitigate risks, and collaborates with local emergency managers to ensure preparedness for any potential dam-related emergencies.

While dams like Greers Ferry Dam play a crucial role in flood risk reduction, they do not eliminate all risks associated with flooding. USACE's proactive approach to managing these risks involves ongoing monitoring, maintenance, and communication with local stakeholders to ensure the safety and integrity of the structure. As severe weather events can impact water levels and pose challenges, the dam's risk management measures are vital in safeguarding the surrounding communities and water resources in the Little Red River basin.

Year Completed

1962

Dam Length

4500

Dam Height

93

River Or Stream

LITTLE RED

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

31460

Hydraulic Height

96

Drainage Area

1146

Nid Storage

2844000

Structural Height

98

Hazard Potential

High

Foundations

Rock

Nid Height

98
       
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.