Pioneer Lake Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Pioneer Lake Dam, located in Izard County, Arkansas, is a local government-owned structure primarily designed for recreation purposes.


°F

°F

mph

Wind

%

Humidity

Summary

This earth dam, completed in 1969, stands at a height of 55 feet and has a length of 700 feet, creating a reservoir with a storage capacity of 1200 acre-feet. The dam is regulated by the Arkansas Natural Resources Commission (ANRC) and is subject to state inspection and enforcement.

With a low hazard potential and a condition assessment that is currently not rated, Pioneer Lake Dam offers a safe environment for visitors to enjoy various recreational activities such as fishing, boating, and wildlife viewing. The dam is situated on Bens Creek-Os, with a drainage area of 0.6 square miles and a maximum discharge capacity of 452 cubic feet per second. Despite its low hazard potential, the dam has not been assigned a Dam Safety Action Classification (DSAC) date, indicating a lack of significant risk management measures.

Although Pioneer Lake Dam has not been recently inspected or assessed for conditions, it remains a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts seeking a tranquil setting for recreation in the heart of Arkansas. With its picturesque surroundings and ample storage capacity, the dam continues to serve as a vital resource for the local community while offering a peaceful retreat for those looking to connect with nature and enjoy the beauty of the outdoors.

Year Completed

1969

Dam Length

700

Dam Height

55

River Or Stream

BENS CREEK-OS

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

39

Hydraulic Height

55

Drainage Area

0.6

Nid Storage

1200

Structural Height

55

Hazard Potential

Low

Nid Height

55
       
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.