Carpenter, also known as Lake Hamilton, is a stunning hydroelectric dam located in Garland, Arkansas.
Wind
Humidity
Built in 1932, the dam stands at 110 feet high and stretches 1165 feet long, utilizing a gravity design with a multi-arch core and a foundation of rock. Its primary purpose is to generate hydroelectric power, while also serving as a fish and wildlife pond, a recreational area, and a water supply source for the surrounding community.
With a storage capacity of 235,500 acre-feet and a surface area of 6,897 acres, Carpenter plays a crucial role in managing water resources in the region. The dam has a controlled spillway with a width of 453 feet and 10 radial Tainter gates for outlet control. Despite its high hazard potential, regular inspections ensure the safety and integrity of the structure, with the last inspection conducted in September 2020.
Carpenter's strategic location on the Ouachita River, its impressive hydraulic height of 95 feet, and its maximum discharge capacity of 244,000 cubic feet per second make it a key player in water management and climate resilience efforts. As a hydroelectric facility regulated by the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission, Carpenter symbolizes the intersection of sustainable energy production, water conservation, and environmental stewardship in Arkansas.
Year Completed |
1932 |
Dam Length |
1165 |
Dam Height |
108 |
River Or Stream |
Ouachita River |
Primary Dam Type |
Gravity |
Surface Area |
6897 |
Hydraulic Height |
95 |
Drainage Area |
1441 |
Nid Storage |
235500 |
Structural Height |
110 |
Outlet Gates |
Tainter (radial) - 10 |
Hazard Potential |
High |
Foundations |
Rock |
Nid Height |
110 |
| Location | Reservations | Toilets |
|---|---|---|
Gulpha Gorge Campground
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Gulpha Gorge - Hot Springs National Park
|
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Lake Catherine State Park
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Cedar Glades Park
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