Big Creek Wid Site 18 Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 5, 2025
Big Creek Wid Site 18 is a key water management structure located in Jonesboro, Arkansas, along the Lost Creek.
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Summary
This earth dam, constructed in 1966 by the USDA NRCS, stands at 26 feet tall and spans 2200 feet, with a storage capacity of 3051 acre-feet. The primary purpose of this dam is flood risk reduction, serving as a crucial infrastructure to protect the surrounding area from potential flooding events.
Managed by the local government and regulated by the Arkansas Natural Resources Commission, Big Creek Wid Site 18 has a significant hazard potential and a moderate risk assessment rating. Despite not being condition-rated, the dam is inspected periodically to ensure its structural integrity and functionality. While the spillway is uncontrolled, the dam plays a crucial role in managing water flow and protecting downstream areas. Additionally, the dam provides recreational opportunities for the local community, showcasing the multifaceted benefits of water resource management structures.
As a vital component of water resource management in Craighead County, Big Creek Wid Site 18 highlights the importance of sustainable infrastructure for flood risk reduction and water storage. With its historical significance and ongoing role in protecting the region, this dam exemplifies the intersection of water resource management, climate resilience, and community safety. Through ongoing monitoring and maintenance, Big Creek Wid Site 18 continues to serve as a critical asset in safeguarding the local environment and infrastructure from potential water-related hazards.
Year Completed |
1966 |
Dam Length |
2200 |
Dam Height |
26 |
River Or Stream |
LOST CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
74 |
Hydraulic Height |
12 |
Drainage Area |
4.2 |
Nid Storage |
3051 |
Structural Height |
26 |
Outlet Gates |
Uncontrolled |
Hazard Potential |
Significant |
Nid Height |
26 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Cache River At Egypt
|
21cfs |
Black River At Black Rock
|
4290cfs |
Black River At Pocahontas
|
3110cfs |
Black River Near Corning
|
789cfs |
Spring River At Imboden
|
558cfs |
Black River At Elgin Ferry
|
3780cfs |
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.
Big Creek Wid Site 18
Crowley's Ridge State Park
Futrell Park
Jonesboro Southside Softball Complex
Craighead Forest Park