W H Spence Lake Dam Reservoir Report
Nearby: Sibleys Lake Dam Meadow Lake Dam
Last Updated: January 12, 2026
W H Spence Lake Dam, located in Greene County, Arkansas, was completed in 1974 by the USDA NRCS and serves as a recreational water resource on Locust Creek.
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Summary
This earth dam stands at a hydraulic height of 24 feet and a length of 200 feet, with a maximum storage capacity of 50 acre-feet. Despite its low hazard potential, the dam's risk assessment is marked as moderate, indicating the need for ongoing monitoring and management measures.
Owned privately, W H Spence Lake Dam is not regulated by the state and does not require inspections or enforcement. The dam's primary purpose is recreation, offering visitors a serene setting for outdoor activities. While the spillway type is uncontrolled, the dam's condition assessment is labeled as "Not Rated," suggesting a need for further evaluation to ensure its long-term safety and functionality.
Water resource and climate enthusiasts can appreciate W H Spence Lake Dam for its role in providing recreational opportunities within the community. As a low-hazard structure with moderate risk, this earth dam's ongoing risk management measures and potential improvements will be crucial in maintaining its safety and preserving the surrounding environment for future generations to enjoy.
Year Completed |
1974 |
Dam Length |
200 |
River Or Stream |
LOCUST CREEK-OS |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Hydraulic Height |
24 |
Nid Storage |
50 |
Structural Height |
24 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Nid Height |
24 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Black River Near Corning
|
532cfs |
Black River At Pocahontas
|
2320cfs |
Cache River At Egypt
|
0cfs |
Black River At Black Rock
|
3320cfs |
Little Black River Below Fairdealing
|
54cfs |
Elevenpoint River Near Ravenden Springs
|
486cfs |
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.
W H Spence Lake Dam