Barksdale Lake Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Barksdale Lake Dam, located in Clark County, Arkansas, was completed in 1961 and is managed by the USDA NRCS.


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Summary

The primary purpose of this earth dam is for recreation, with a height of 23 feet and a storage capacity of 184 acre-feet. Situated on the Mathews Creek-TR river, the dam spans a length of 1087 feet and has a maximum discharge of 1800 cubic feet per second.

Despite its low hazard potential and moderate risk assessment, Barksdale Lake Dam is not state-regulated and does not have state jurisdiction or permitting. It is primarily owned by a private entity and serves as a popular recreational spot in the area. The dam has not been rated for its condition assessment, but it is regularly inspected to ensure its safety and integrity for visitors and the surrounding environment.

With its picturesque location and contribution to water resource management, Barksdale Lake Dam is a notable structure in the region. Its design by the USDA NRCS showcases a commitment to sustainable practices in maintaining water resources for recreational purposes. While the dam may not be extensively regulated by state agencies, its role in providing a safe and enjoyable environment for visitors underscores its importance as a key feature in the local landscape.

Year Completed

1961

Dam Length

1087

Dam Height

23

River Or Stream

MATHEWS CREEK-TR

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Hydraulic Height

19

Nid Storage

184

Structural Height

23

Hazard Potential

Low

Nid Height

23
       
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.