Poteau River Wid Site 12 Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 5, 2025
Poteau River Wid Site 12, also known as Lake Hinkle Nursery Pond Dam, is a state-owned structure located in Scott, Arkansas, along Denton Creek.
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Summary
This earth dam, built in 1969 by the USDA NRCS, serves primarily for recreational purposes, offering a surface area of 14 acres and a storage capacity of 4,283 acre-feet. With a dam height of 79 feet and a maximum discharge of 23,200 cubic feet per second, the site provides a serene environment for water resource and climate enthusiasts to explore and enjoy.
Despite its low hazard potential and moderate risk assessment, Poteau River Wid Site 12 is regulated, permitted, inspected, and enforced by the Arkansas Natural Resources Commission (ANRC). The dam's uncontrolled spillway and outlet gates contribute to its recreational functionality, while its condition assessment remains unrated. Although the site has not been modified in recent years and lacks a detailed emergency action plan (EAP), it continues to meet safety guidelines and manages risk effectively.
For those interested in water resource management and climate resilience, Poteau River Wid Site 12 offers a unique opportunity to observe the intersection of human infrastructure and natural ecosystems. With its historical significance, structural integrity, and regulated status, this site serves as a valuable case study for understanding the balance between recreational enjoyment and environmental stewardship in the face of changing climatic conditions.
Year Completed |
1969 |
Dam Length |
1465 |
Dam Height |
79 |
River Or Stream |
DENTON CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
14 |
Hydraulic Height |
66 |
Drainage Area |
6.5 |
Nid Storage |
4283 |
Structural Height |
79 |
Outlet Gates |
Uncontrolled |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Nid Height |
79 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Poteau River At Cauthron
|
129cfs |
Poteau River At Loving
|
136cfs |
Black Fork Below Big Creek Nr Page
|
6cfs |
James Fork Near Hackett
|
39cfs |
Kiamichi River Near Big Cedar
|
32cfs |
Petit Jean River Near Booneville
|
95cfs |
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.
Area Campgrounds
| Location | Reservations | Toilets |
|---|---|---|
Little Pines
|
||
Little Pines Recreation Area
|
||
Queen Wilhelmina State Park
|
Poteau River Wid Site 12