Norwood Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Norwood Dam, located in Bella Vista Village, Arkansas, is a privately owned earth dam completed in 1972 primarily for recreational purposes.


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Summary

Standing at a height of 85 feet with a hydraulic height of 75 feet, the dam boasts a storage capacity of 1320 acre-feet and a normal storage level of 910 acre-feet. The dam spans 645 feet in length and has a surface area of 35 acres, serving as a popular spot for water resource and climate enthusiasts to enjoy various recreational activities.

Managed by the Arkansas Natural Resources Commission, Norwood Dam is regulated, inspected, and enforced by the state agency to ensure its safety and maintenance. With a significant hazard potential, the dam has not been rated for its condition assessment, but regular inspections are conducted to monitor its integrity. Despite the lack of specific risk assessment measures in place, Norwood Dam continues to provide valuable recreational opportunities while maintaining a strong focus on safety and compliance with state regulations.

Although lacking in detailed emergency action plans and risk management protocols, Norwood Dam remains a key feature in the local landscape, offering residents and visitors a chance to appreciate the beauty of Sugar Creek and surrounding areas. With its picturesque setting and diverse wildlife, the dam serves as a vital water resource for the community while also capturing the interest of those passionate about climate and environmental conservation efforts in the region.

Year Completed

1972

Dam Length

645

Dam Height

85

River Or Stream

SUGAR CREEK-TR

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

35

Hydraulic Height

75

Drainage Area

0.8

Nid Storage

1320

Structural Height

85

Hazard Potential

Significant

Nid Height

85
       
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.