Matthews Lake Dam Reservoir Report
Nearby: Mcgraw Pond Dam Farmer's Lake Dam
Last Updated: December 5, 2025
Matthews Lake Dam, located in Tyro, Arkansas, was completed in 1958 and is primarily used for recreational purposes.
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Summary
The dam, designed by USDA NRCS, is an earth dam with a hydraulic height of 9 feet and a structural height of 13 feet. It impounds Ables Creek-TR and has a storage capacity of 66 acre-feet, with a normal storage level of 36 acre-feet.
Despite being privately owned and not regulated by the state, Matthews Lake Dam has a low hazard potential and a moderate risk assessment rating. The dam features an uncontrolled spillway and has not been inspected or assessed for condition. While there are no associated structures or outlet gates, the dam is in a rural area of Lincoln County and is not under the jurisdiction of a regulatory agency.
For water resource and climate enthusiasts, Matthews Lake Dam serves as an interesting case study in recreational dam management. With its modest height and storage capacity, the dam provides a local water source for recreational activities while posing a low hazard potential to surrounding areas. The lack of state regulation and inspections may raise concerns about the dam's long-term safety and maintenance, highlighting the importance of regular monitoring and assessment for privately owned dams.
Year Completed |
1958 |
Dam Length |
435 |
River Or Stream |
ABLES CREEK-TR |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Hydraulic Height |
9 |
Nid Storage |
66 |
Structural Height |
13 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Nid Height |
13 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Bayou Bartholomew At Garrett Bridge
|
149cfs |
Saline River Near Rye
|
433cfs |
Bayou Bartholomew Near Mcgehee
|
223cfs |
Moro Creek Near Fordyce
|
1580cfs |
Bayou Bartholomew Near Portland
|
363cfs |
Saline River Near Sheridan
|
2080cfs |
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.
Matthews Lake Dam