Summary
Built in 1940 by the USDA Forest Service, this masonry dam stands at 27 feet tall and spans 187 feet in length, with a storage capacity of 23 acre-feet. The reservoir covers a surface area of 5 acres and is fed by the Blanchard River, offering a picturesque setting for recreation enthusiasts and nature lovers.
Despite its low hazard potential, Mirror Lake poses a very high risk due to its location and structural characteristics. The dam features a controlled spillway with valve outlet gates and has a maximum discharge capacity of 118 cubic feet per second. The reservoir is maintained by the Forest Service and falls under the regulatory oversight of the Fish and Wildlife Service. Although the condition assessment is currently not rated, regular inspections are conducted every 10 years to ensure the safety and integrity of the dam.
With its tranquil waters and scenic surroundings, Mirror Lake serves as a vital habitat for local wildlife and a popular destination for outdoor activities. As a key component of the ecosystem in Stone County, Arkansas, this reservoir plays a crucial role in water resource management and conservation efforts. Enthusiasts of water resources and climate will find Mirror Lake to be a fascinating blend of natural beauty and engineering ingenuity, offering a unique opportunity to appreciate the intersection of human and environmental interactions in a delicate ecosystem.
Year Completed |
1940 |
Dam Length |
187 |
Dam Height |
27 |
River Or Stream |
BLANCHARD |
Primary Dam Type |
Masonry |
Surface Area |
5 |
Drainage Area |
2 |
Nid Storage |
23 |
Structural Height |
29 |
Outlet Gates |
Valve |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Nid Height |
29 |
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 |
|---|---|---|
Blanchard Springs Campgrounds
|
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Blanchard Springs
|
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Gunner Pool Recreation Area
|
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Gunner Pool
|
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Barkshed
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Barkshed Recreation Area
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Mirror Lake
Sylamore Wildlife Management Area
Ozark Folk Center State Park
Devils Knob Natural Area Wildlife Management Area
Wilderness Leatherwood