Wilson Brake Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Wilson Brake Dam, located in Parkdale, Arkansas, was completed in 1968 and serves as a recreational spot for water resource and climate enthusiasts.


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Summary

The dam, primarily owned by the state, stands at a height of 15 feet with a hydraulic height of 13 feet, and has a length of 415 feet. It has a storage capacity of 1096 acre-feet, with a normal storage level of 936 acre-feet, making it a vital resource for the surrounding area.

Situated on Bayou Bartholomew, Wilson Brake Dam is managed by the Vicksburg District of the US Army Corps of Engineers. With a low hazard potential and a condition assessment that is not rated, the dam provides a safe and enjoyable environment for recreational activities such as fishing, boating, and hiking. Although the dam is not regulated by the state and does not have a designated inspection frequency, its significance as a water resource and climate asset in Ashley County, Arkansas, cannot be overlooked.

Despite its low hazard potential, Wilson Brake Dam plays a crucial role in providing recreational opportunities for locals and visitors alike. As a state-owned earth dam, it stands as a testament to the importance of preserving and maintaining water resources in the face of changing climate conditions. Its picturesque location, coupled with its historical significance, makes Wilson Brake Dam a must-visit destination for those interested in water resource management and climate conservation efforts.

Year Completed

1968

Dam Length

415

Dam Height

15

River Or Stream

BAYOU BARTHOLOMEW-TR

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Hydraulic Height

13

Nid Storage

1096

Structural Height

15

Hazard Potential

Low

Nid Height

15
       
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.