Higginbottom Lake Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Higginbottom Lake Dam, located in Baxter County, Arkansas, is a privately owned structure that serves primarily for recreational purposes.


°F

°F

mph

Wind

%

Humidity

Summary

Completed in 1971, this earth dam stands at a height of 35 feet and has a storage capacity of 60 acre-feet. Situated on Walker Creek, this dam plays a crucial role in providing water storage for the surrounding area.

With its significant hazard potential, Higginbottom Lake Dam is regulated by the Arkansas Natural Resources Commission and undergoes regular inspections and enforcement measures to ensure its safety and functionality. Despite not being rated for its condition assessment, this dam remains a vital part of the local water resource infrastructure. The dam's location in Norfork, Arkansas, makes it a key site for water resource and climate enthusiasts to study and appreciate the intersection of man-made structures and natural environments.

As part of the Little Rock District, Higginbottom Lake Dam is a focal point for those interested in understanding the impact of dams on rivers and streams. With its unique design and purpose, this dam provides valuable insights into how water resources can be managed for both recreational and practical uses. Visitors to this site can witness firsthand the importance of sustainable water management practices in the face of changing climate conditions.

Year Completed

1971

Dam Length

200

Dam Height

35

River Or Stream

WALKER CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Hydraulic Height

35

Nid Storage

60

Structural Height

35

Hazard Potential

Significant

Nid Height

35
       
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.