Choctaw Lake Dam Reservoir Report
Nearby: Clinton Lake Dam B B Ranch Lake Dam
Last Updated: December 5, 2025
Choctaw Lake Dam, located in Van Buren, Arkansas, is a private earth dam completed in 1953 primarily for recreational purposes.
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Summary
Standing at 18 feet tall and spanning 730 feet in length, the dam holds a storage capacity of 80 acre-feet of water, with a normal storage level of 60 acre-feet. The dam is situated on the Big Branch-TR stream and is under the jurisdiction of the Little Rock District of the US Army Corps of Engineers.
Despite its significant hazard potential, Choctaw Lake Dam has not been rated for its condition assessment, and there is no information available on its maintenance and emergency action plans. The dam is not regulated or inspected by any state agency, and there are no associated structures or outlets for water discharge. While the dam serves as a recreational site for the local community, there are concerns about its safety and the lack of risk management measures in place.
For water resource and climate enthusiasts, Choctaw Lake Dam presents an intriguing case study on the management and maintenance of private dams in the United States. With its historical significance and recreational value, the dam raises questions about the responsibility of private owners in ensuring the safety and integrity of critical infrastructure. As discussions on water resource management and climate change adaptation continue, the status of Choctaw Lake Dam serves as a reminder of the challenges and complexities involved in safeguarding our water resources for future generations.
Year Completed |
1953 |
Dam Length |
730 |
Dam Height |
18 |
River Or Stream |
BIG BRANCH-TR |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Hydraulic Height |
18 |
Nid Storage |
80 |
Structural Height |
18 |
Hazard Potential |
Significant |
Nid Height |
18 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Dam Data Reference
Condition Assessment
SatisfactoryNo 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
HighDams 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.
Choctaw Lake Dam