Wilson Lake Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Wilson Lake Dam, located in Fayetteville, Arkansas, is a local government-owned structure that serves as a recreational hub along the White River.


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Summary

Completed in 1941, this earth dam stands at a height of 49 feet and has a hydraulic height of 28 feet, providing a storage capacity of 512.2 acre-feet. With a primary purpose of recreation, the dam offers opportunities for outdoor enthusiasts to engage in water-based activities, while also serving as a vital component in the state's water resource management.

Managed by the Arkansas Natural Resources Commission, Wilson Lake Dam is regulated and inspected by state authorities to ensure its safety and functionality. Despite being deemed as having a significant hazard potential, the dam's condition assessment is currently marked as "Not Rated". The last inspection in May 2014 revealed no major issues, although the emergency action plan (EAP) status and risk management measures remain unspecified. As a key feature in the region's water infrastructure, Wilson Lake Dam plays a crucial role in maintaining the balance between water resource utilization and environmental conservation efforts.

In the picturesque setting of Washington County, Wilson Lake Dam stands as a testament to human ingenuity in harnessing nature's resources for both recreational and practical purposes. With its strategic location and historical significance, this dam continues to be a focal point for water resource and climate enthusiasts who appreciate the intersection between engineering marvels and natural landscapes. As ongoing evaluations and maintenance efforts ensure the dam's resilience against potential risks, Wilson Lake Dam remains a symbol of sustainable water management practices in the heart of Arkansas.

Year Completed

1941

Dam Length

640

Dam Height

49

River Or Stream

WHITE RIVER-TR

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Hydraulic Height

28

Nid Storage

512.2

Structural Height

28

Hazard Potential

Significant

Nid Height

49
       
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.