Big Creek Wid Site 06 Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Big Creek Wid Site 06, located in Sterling Springs, Arkansas, is a vital flood risk reduction structure managed by the USDA NRCS.


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Summary

Constructed in 1967, this earth dam stands at 27 feet high and spans 790 feet in length, with a storage capacity of 804 acre-feet. The dam plays a crucial role in protecting the surrounding area from potential flooding, with a maximum discharge capacity of 320 cubic feet per second.

The dam's primary purpose is flood risk reduction, but it also serves recreational purposes for the local community. With a high hazard potential and moderate risk assessment, the structure is under state regulation, permitting, inspection, and enforcement by the Arkansas Natural Resources Commission (ANRC). Despite not being rated for condition assessment, the dam's emergency action plan status and risk management measures are not specified, leaving room for improvement in preparedness and response protocols. Water resource and climate enthusiasts can appreciate the significance of Big Creek Wid Site 06 in safeguarding the area against flooding while recognizing the need for continued monitoring and maintenance to ensure its effectiveness in the face of changing environmental conditions.

Year Completed

1967

Dam Length

790

Dam Height

27

River Or Stream

BIG CREEK-TR

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

25

Hydraulic Height

17

Drainage Area

1

Nid Storage

804

Structural Height

23

Outlet Gates

Uncontrolled

Hazard Potential

High

Nid Height

27
       
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.