Bethel Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Bethel Dam, located in Hot Springs, Arkansas, was completed in 1881 and stands at a height of 36 feet with a length of 419 feet.


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Summary

This impressive structure serves primarily as a water supply source, with a storage capacity of 194 acre-feet and a maximum discharge capacity of 2630 cubic feet per second. The dam is situated on the Bull Bayou-TR river and falls under the jurisdiction of the Arkansas Natural Resources Commission for regulation, permitting, inspection, and enforcement.

Despite its age, Bethel Dam maintains a low hazard potential and has not been rated for its condition. The dam's emergency action plan status, risk assessment, and management measures remain unspecified. While the structure has not been modified in recent years, it continues to play a crucial role in water resource management for the surrounding area. With a surface area of 25 acres and a drainage area of 0.6 square miles, Bethel Dam is an essential component of the local water infrastructure.

Water resource and climate enthusiasts will appreciate the historical significance and functional importance of Bethel Dam. As a key water supply source for Hot Springs, Arkansas, the dam's strategic location on the Bull Bayou-TR river ensures reliable water storage and distribution. Despite its age, the dam's low hazard potential and lack of condition assessment issues speak to the sound engineering and maintenance practices that have preserved its integrity over the years. Bethel Dam stands as a testament to the enduring role of dams in supporting sustainable water management practices in the region.

Year Completed

1881

Dam Length

419

Dam Height

36

River Or Stream

BULL BAYOU-TR

Primary Dam Type

Other

Surface Area

25

Hydraulic Height

36

Drainage Area

0.6

Nid Storage

194

Structural Height

36

Hazard Potential

Low

Nid Height

36
       
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.