Remmel Reservoir Report
Nearby: Crouchwood Lake Dam Diamondhead
Last Updated: December 21, 2025
Remmel, also known as Lake Catherine, is a captivating hydroelectric dam located in Hot Spring, Arkansas, along the Ouachita River.
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Summary
Built in 1925, this buttress dam stands at a height of 60 feet and has a maximum storage capacity of 57,260 acre-feet, making it an essential water resource in the region. With a surface area of 1,642 acres and a drainage area of 1,516 square miles, Remmel provides crucial benefits for fish and wildlife, recreation, and hydroelectric power generation.
Managed by the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission, Remmel dam boasts a controlled spillway with a width of 360 feet and Tainter (radial) outlet gates to regulate water flow. Despite its high hazard potential, the dam has not undergone a recent condition assessment, highlighting the need for ongoing monitoring and risk management measures. With its rich history and significant impact on the surrounding environment, Remmel serves as a key landmark for water resource and climate enthusiasts, showcasing the intersection of human engineering and natural water systems in Arkansas.
In addition to its engineering marvel, Remmel dam is closely monitored for safety and emergency preparedness, with a recent update to its Emergency Action Plan in December 2020. With a very high risk assessment rating, the dam's importance in mitigating flooding and providing renewable energy underscores the need for continued maintenance and proactive risk management strategies. Water enthusiasts and climate advocates can appreciate the complex interplay of water resource management, hydroelectric power generation, and environmental conservation at Remmel, making it a must-visit site for those passionate about sustainable water infrastructure and climate resilience.
Year Completed |
1925 |
Dam Length |
910 |
Dam Height |
60 |
River Or Stream |
Ouachita River |
Primary Dam Type |
Buttress |
Surface Area |
1642 |
Hydraulic Height |
60 |
Drainage Area |
1516 |
Nid Storage |
57260 |
Structural Height |
75 |
Outlet Gates |
Tainter (radial) - 12 |
Hazard Potential |
High |
Foundations |
Rock |
Nid Height |
75 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
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.
Area Campgrounds
| Location | Reservations | Toilets |
|---|---|---|
Lake Catherine State Park
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Gulpha Gorge Campground
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Gulpha Gorge - Hot Springs National Park
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Remmel