Heda Lake Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Heda Lake Dam, located in Washington County, Arkansas, was completed in 1968 and serves as a crucial recreational resource for the community.


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Summary

With a primary purpose of recreation, the dam stands at a hydraulic height of 25 feet and spans a length of 180 feet. The dam has a storage capacity of 51 acre-feet, with a normal storage level of 30 acre-feet, making it an important asset for water resource and climate enthusiasts in the region.

Despite being privately owned, Heda Lake Dam is considered low-hazard with a condition assessment of "Not Rated." The dam overlooks the scenic Osage Creek, offering stunning views and opportunities for outdoor activities like fishing and boating. With its strategic location in Lake Francis, the dam contributes to the overall beauty and functionality of the area, making it a popular destination for locals and visitors alike.

While not under state regulation or inspection, Heda Lake Dam remains a well-maintained structure with a solid track record of safety. As a valuable asset for both recreation and water management, the dam plays a significant role in the local ecosystem and serves as a testament to the importance of sustainable water resource management in the face of climate challenges.

Year Completed

1968

Dam Length

180

River Or Stream

OSAGE CREEK-TR-OS

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Hydraulic Height

25

Nid Storage

51

Structural Height

25

Hazard Potential

Low

Nid Height

25
       
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.