Stephens Lake Dam Reservoir Report
Nearby: Cox Creek Lake Dam Lake Brown Dam
Last Updated: December 25, 2025
Stephens Lake Dam, located in Grant County, Arkansas, stands as a testament to the ingenuity of earth dam construction, completed in 1960 to a height of 29 feet and a length of 540 feet.
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Summary
This recreational dam serves multiple purposes, including water supply and recreation, with a normal storage capacity of 190 acre-feet and a maximum storage capacity of 238 acre-feet. Situated on Polk Creek-TR, the dam boasts a low hazard potential and has not been rated for its condition as of yet.
Owned privately, Stephens Lake Dam falls under state regulations, with permitting, inspection, and enforcement conducted by the Arkansas Natural Resources Commission (ANRC). The dam's primary purpose is recreational, offering visitors a serene spot for leisure activities such as fishing and boating. Despite its humble surface area of 18 acres, the dam plays a crucial role in providing water supply and enhancing the natural landscape of the surrounding area.
For water resource and climate enthusiasts, Stephens Lake Dam presents a fascinating case study of a successful earth dam project that has stood the test of time. With its strategic location and functional design, the dam continues to contribute to the local ecosystem while offering recreational opportunities for residents and visitors alike. As an essential piece of infrastructure in Grant County, Arkansas, Stephens Lake Dam serves as a reminder of the importance of sustainable water management practices in the face of a changing climate.
Year Completed |
1960 |
Dam Length |
540 |
Dam Height |
29 |
River Or Stream |
POLK CREEK-TR |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
18 |
Hydraulic Height |
32 |
Drainage Area |
0.6 |
Nid Storage |
238 |
Structural Height |
35 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Nid Height |
35 |
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.
Stephens Lake Dam