Chanute Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Chanute Dam, located in Hardy, Arkansas, is a local government-owned structure that serves a primary purpose of recreation.


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Summary

Completed in 1971, this earth dam stands at a height of 58 feet and has a length of 900 feet, creating a reservoir with a maximum storage capacity of 2000 acre-feet. The dam overlooks the Short Draft Branch river and covers a surface area of 65 acres, providing a scenic spot for water resource and climate enthusiasts to enjoy outdoor activities.

Despite its recreational benefits, Chanute Dam has a high hazard potential and is currently rated as "Not Rated" in terms of condition assessment. The dam is regulated by the Arkansas Natural Resources Commission (ANRC) and undergoes regular inspections, with the last one dating back to April 2016. While the dam does not have a spillway or locks, it has the capacity to discharge up to 4676 cubic feet per second in case of emergencies. As water plays a crucial role in the ecosystem, it is essential to ensure the safety and maintenance of dams like Chanute to protect both the environment and surrounding communities.

For those interested in water resource management and climate resilience, Chanute Dam serves as a valuable case study in the importance of balancing recreational benefits with safety and regulatory compliance. As water levels and extreme weather events continue to fluctuate, the proper management and maintenance of dams become increasingly critical to mitigate risks and ensure sustainable water resource utilization. By staying informed and actively engaged in the monitoring and upkeep of structures like Chanute Dam, enthusiasts can contribute to the overall resilience of water systems and their surrounding environments.

Year Completed

1971

Dam Length

900

Dam Height

58

River Or Stream

SHORT DRAFT BRANCH

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

65

Hydraulic Height

58

Drainage Area

1.1

Nid Storage

2000

Structural Height

58

Hazard Potential

High

Nid Height

58
       
Seasonal Comparison

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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.