Marks Lake Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Marks Lake Dam, located in Jefferson County, Arkansas, is a private earth dam built in 1969 by the USDA NRCS for the primary purpose of recreation.


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Summary

The dam stands at a hydraulic height of 8 feet and a structural height of 10 feet, with a length of 3600 feet. It provides a storage capacity of 284 acre-feet, with a normal storage level of 224 acre-feet, covering a surface area of 61.2 acres and draining an area of 0.22 square miles.

Despite being classified as having a low hazard potential and being in moderate risk, Marks Lake Dam has not been rated for its condition. It does not have a state regulatory agency overseeing it and has not been inspected recently. The dam's spillway is uncontrolled, with a maximum discharge capacity of 424 cubic feet per second. While the dam has not been modified in recent years and lacks specific risk management measures, it remains an essential feature for recreation in the area, contributing to the local water resources and climate dynamics along Bayou Bartholomew-TR.

Overall, Marks Lake Dam serves as a vital recreational resource in the region, offering opportunities for leisure and enjoyment. Its presence contributes to the local ecosystem and water management, with a focus on maintaining a safe and sustainable environment for visitors. As interest in water resource management and climate resilience grows, Marks Lake Dam stands as a testament to the importance of balancing human recreation with environmental conservation in a changing climate landscape.

Year Completed

1969

Dam Length

3600

River Or Stream

BAYOU BARTHOLOMEW-TR

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

61.2

Hydraulic Height

8

Drainage Area

0.22

Nid Storage

284

Structural Height

10

Hazard Potential

Low

Nid Height

10
       
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.