Byrd Lake Dam Reservoir Report
Nearby: Hartness #3 Wells Lake Dam
Last Updated: December 5, 2025
Byrd Lake Dam, located in Drew County, Arkansas, was completed in 1957 and is primarily used for recreational purposes.
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Summary
Managed by private owners, the dam was designed by the USDA NRCS and stands at a structural height of 11 feet with a hydraulic height of 8 feet. The dam has a normal storage capacity of 70 acre-feet and a maximum storage capacity of 110 acre-feet, serving as a low-hazard structure with a condition assessment currently listed as "Not Rated."
The dam, situated on the Lower Cut-Off Creek tributary, falls under the Vicksburg District jurisdiction and is represented in Congress by Bruce Westerman. With no state regulation or inspection required, Byrd Lake Dam remains a pivotal feature for water resource and climate enthusiasts interested in the maintenance and management of earth-type dams. Despite lacking recent assessment data, the dam continues to provide essential recreational opportunities while operating under private ownership and oversight from the Natural Resources Conservation Service.
As a key component of the local landscape, Byrd Lake Dam offers a unique glimpse into the intersection of infrastructure and environmental stewardship in Arkansas. With its modest height and storage capacity, the dam symbolizes the importance of responsible dam construction and maintenance in ensuring water resource sustainability. For enthusiasts passionate about water conservation and climate resilience, Byrd Lake Dam serves as a prime example of how human-made structures can harmoniously coexist with natural ecosystems while providing valuable recreational benefits to the community.
Year Completed |
1957 |
Dam Length |
720 |
River Or Stream |
LOWER CUT-OFF CREEK-TR |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Hydraulic Height |
8 |
Nid Storage |
110 |
Structural Height |
11 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Nid Height |
11 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Bayou Bartholomew At Garrett Bridge
|
149cfs |
Bayou Bartholomew Near Mcgehee
|
223cfs |
Saline River Near Rye
|
433cfs |
Bayou Bartholomew Near Portland
|
363cfs |
Moro Creek Near Fordyce
|
1580cfs |
Bayou Macon At Eudora
|
185cfs |
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.
Byrd Lake Dam