White Oak Lake Upper Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

White Oak Lake Upper Dam, located in Ouachita, Arkansas, is a state-owned earth dam completed in 1960 for the primary purpose of recreation.


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Summary

With a structural height of 21 feet and a hydraulic height of 12 feet, the dam stands at a total length of 1280 feet and has a storage capacity of 16,100 acre-feet. The dam impounds White Oak Creek, creating a surface area of 597.8 acres and a drainage area of 19.4 square miles.

This significant dam poses a hazard potential and has not been rated for its condition assessment. Despite not being regulated by the state, the dam plays a crucial role in water resource management and provides opportunities for recreational activities in the area. With its picturesque location and ample storage capacity, White Oak Lake Upper Dam serves as a vital asset for water enthusiasts and climate advocates interested in the sustainable use of natural resources.

Although lacking in recent inspection and assessment data, the dam remains an integral part of the water infrastructure in the region. As water resource and climate enthusiasts, it is important to recognize the importance of maintaining and monitoring dams like White Oak Lake Upper Dam to ensure the safety of surrounding communities and the preservation of the surrounding environment. With its history dating back to the 1960s, this dam continues to be a valuable resource for both recreational and environmental purposes.

Year Completed

1960

Dam Length

1280

Dam Height

21

River Or Stream

WHITE OAK CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

597.8

Hydraulic Height

12

Drainage Area

19.4

Nid Storage

16100

Structural Height

21

Hazard Potential

Significant

Nid Height

21
       
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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.