Vaughn Wilson Lake Dam Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 5, 2025
Vaughn Wilson Lake Dam, located in Harmontown, Arkansas, was completed in 1956 and serves as a recreational spot along the Betsy Gill Creek.
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Summary
This private dam has a hydraulic height of 15 feet and a structural height of 15 feet, with a length of 500 feet. It has a storage capacity of 50 acre-feet, with a normal storage level of 40 acre-feet, making it a popular destination for water resource and climate enthusiasts looking to enjoy outdoor activities.
Despite its primary purpose of recreation, Vaughn Wilson Lake Dam holds significant hazard potential, although its condition has not been formally assessed. The dam is not state-regulated and has not been inspected or permitted by state agencies. It is not part of the US Army Corps of Engineers' (USACE) jurisdiction, further highlighting its private ownership and management. As such, the dam's emergency action plan, risk assessment, and management measures are unknown, raising questions about its safety and resilience in the face of potential disasters.
As a key feature along the Betsy Gill Creek, Vaughn Wilson Lake Dam offers a serene environment for visitors to unwind and appreciate the natural beauty of Independence, Arkansas. With its historic construction dating back over six decades, the dam stands as a testament to both human ingenuity and the importance of water resource management. However, concerns about its regulatory oversight and emergency preparedness underscore the need for continued monitoring and maintenance to ensure the safety of the surrounding community and environment.
Year Completed |
1956 |
Dam Length |
500 |
River Or Stream |
BETSY GILL CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Hydraulic Height |
15 |
Nid Storage |
50 |
Structural Height |
15 |
Hazard Potential |
Significant |
Nid Height |
15 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
White River At Batesville
|
43800cfs |
Little Red River Near Dewey
|
2100cfs |
North Sylamore Creek Near Fifty Six
|
6cfs |
Black River At Elgin Ferry
|
3780cfs |
White River At Calico Rock
|
12100cfs |
White River At Newport
|
11300cfs |
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.
Vaughn Wilson Lake Dam