Lake Shepherd Springs Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Lake Shepherd Springs Dam, also known as Upper Ft Smith Dam, is a key water supply structure located in Crawford, Arkansas.


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Summary

Built in 1954, this Earth-type dam stands at a height of 98.5 feet and has a maximum storage capacity of 19,163 acre-feet. With a normal storage capacity of 12,300 acre-feet, the dam serves the primary purpose of supplying water to the surrounding areas.

Situated on Frog Bayou, this dam plays a crucial role in managing water resources in the region, with a drainage area of 62.7 square miles. Despite its high hazard potential, the condition assessment of Lake Shepherd Springs Dam is currently listed as "Not Rated", with the last inspection conducted in May 2008. With a surface area of 470 acres and a maximum discharge of 88,130 cubic feet per second, this dam is a vital component of the water infrastructure in Mountainburg.

Owned by the local government, Lake Shepherd Springs Dam has not undergone any modifications over the years and does not fall under the jurisdiction of any state regulatory agency. Its strategic location and significant storage capacity make it a critical asset for water supply management in the area, ensuring a reliable source of water for the community. Climate and water resource enthusiasts will find Lake Shepherd Springs Dam a fascinating example of infrastructure designed to meet the water supply needs of the region.

Year Completed

1954

Dam Length

2100

Dam Height

98.5

River Or Stream

FROG BAYOU

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

470

Hydraulic Height

99

Drainage Area

62.7

Nid Storage

19163

Structural Height

99

Hazard Potential

High

Nid Height

99
       
Seasonal Comparison

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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.