Cole Pond Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Cole Pond Dam is a privately owned structure located in Craighead County, Arkansas, with a primary purpose of recreation.


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Summary

Constructed in 1960, this earth dam stands at a height of 20 feet and spans 700 feet in length. The dam has a storage capacity of 130 acre-feet and is situated on the Emerson Ditch-OS river or stream.

Despite being classified as having a low hazard potential and not being state-regulated, Cole Pond Dam's condition assessment is currently listed as "Not Rated." The dam has not undergone recent inspections, and emergency preparedness measures such as an Emergency Action Plan (EAP) are not reported. The dam is under the jurisdiction of the Little Rock District of the US Army Corps of Engineers but has not received federal funding or oversight.

Given its location in a recreational area, the status of Cole Pond Dam raises concerns for water resource and climate enthusiasts. Without a current assessment of its condition or emergency preparedness measures in place, there is potential for environmental and safety risks associated with the dam. Additionally, the lack of federal involvement in oversight and maintenance could pose challenges for ensuring the long-term safety and sustainability of the structure.

Year Completed

1960

Dam Length

700

Dam Height

20

River Or Stream

EMERSON DITCH-OS

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Hydraulic Height

20

Nid Storage

130

Structural Height

20

Hazard Potential

Low

Nid Height

20
       
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.