Arnolds Lake Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: January 12, 2026

Arnolds Lake Dam, located in Paragould, Arkansas, was completed in 1965 and serves as a key recreational spot for water resource and climate enthusiasts.


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Summary

The primary purpose of this privately owned Earth dam is for recreation, offering a serene escape on Eight Mile Creek. With a dam height of 15 feet and a storage capacity of 352 acre-feet, this dam provides a picturesque surface area of 50 acres for visitors to enjoy.

Despite not being regulated or inspected by the state, Arnolds Lake Dam poses a high hazard potential and has not been rated for its condition. The last inspection of the dam was conducted in June 1981, highlighting the need for updated risk assessments and emergency action plans. The dam's location in Greene County, Arkansas, makes it a vital resource for the local community, and efforts should be made to ensure its safety and maintenance for the future.

As a significant feature in the Little Rock District, Arnolds Lake Dam has the potential to offer valuable recreational opportunities while also serving as a potential risk to surrounding areas. With its rich history and unique design, this dam presents an opportunity for water resource and climate enthusiasts to explore and appreciate the intersection of man-made structures and natural landscapes. It is essential for stakeholders to prioritize the safety and maintenance of Arnolds Lake Dam to continue providing a safe and enjoyable experience for all who visit.

Year Completed

1965

Dam Length

559

Dam Height

15

River Or Stream

EIGHT MILE CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

50

Hydraulic Height

13

Drainage Area

0.11

Nid Storage

352

Structural Height

15

Hazard Potential

High

Nid Height

15
       
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.