R J Barnett Lake Dam Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 5, 2025
Located in Randolph County, Arkansas, the R J Barnett Lake Dam was completed in 1971 and serves primarily for recreational purposes.
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Summary
This privately owned earth dam stands at a height of 15 feet and stretches 100 feet in length, with a storage capacity of 75 acre-feet. While it has an uncontrolled spillway type, the dam is classified as low hazard potential, with a moderate risk assessment rating of 3.
Managed by the USDA NRCS, the R J Barnett Lake Dam is situated on the Main Ditch-TR river/stream and falls under the jurisdiction of the Memphis District. Despite being a non-federal structure, the dam is not regulated or inspected by the state, posing some concerns regarding its maintenance and safety. With a condition assessment rating of "Not Rated," there is limited information available on the current state of the dam and its emergency preparedness measures.
For water resource and climate enthusiasts, the R J Barnett Lake Dam presents an intriguing case study of a privately owned recreational dam in Arkansas. With its unique design features and limited regulatory oversight, there are questions surrounding the long-term sustainability and safety of the structure. Further research and monitoring may be necessary to ensure the continued functionality and resilience of this important water resource infrastructure.
Year Completed |
1971 |
Dam Length |
100 |
Dam Height |
15 |
River Or Stream |
MAIN DITCH-TR |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Hydraulic Height |
15 |
Nid Storage |
75 |
Structural Height |
15 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Nid Height |
15 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Black River At Pocahontas
|
3110cfs |
Current River At Doniphan
|
1900cfs |
Elevenpoint River Near Ravenden Springs
|
644cfs |
Black River Near Corning
|
789cfs |
Little Black River Below Fairdealing
|
113cfs |
Spring River At Imboden
|
558cfs |
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.
R J Barnett Lake Dam