Paris Dam Reservoir Report
Nearby: Hope Lake Dam Subiaco Dam (Upper)
Last Updated: December 5, 2025
Paris Dam, located in Logan County, Arkansas, along Short Mountain Creek, is a significant Earth dam completed in 1939 with a height of 55.3 feet and a storage capacity of 5,349 acre-feet.
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Summary
The primary purpose of the dam is to create a Fish and Wildlife Pond, while also serving for recreation and water supply. Despite its historical significance, the dam is classified as having a high hazard potential and is in poor condition as of the last assessment in March 2020.
Managed by the local government, Paris Dam falls under the regulatory jurisdiction of the Arkansas Natural Resources Commission (ANRC), with state permitting, inspection, and enforcement in place. The dam's critical role in flood control and water resource management is evident in its drainage area of 44.2 square miles and maximum discharge capacity of 77,000 cubic feet per second. Although the dam lacks certain safety features like spillways and outlet gates, efforts are being made to ensure its continued functionality and safety for the surrounding community.
With its unique blend of ecological, recreational, and water supply functions, Paris Dam stands as a reminder of the intricate relationship between water resources and climate resilience. As water enthusiasts and climate advocates, understanding the significance and challenges facing dams like Paris Dam is crucial in fostering sustainable water management practices and ensuring the safety and well-being of local communities in the face of changing climate conditions.
Year Completed |
1939 |
Dam Length |
744 |
Dam Height |
55.3 |
River Or Stream |
SHORT MOUNTAIN CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
171 |
Hydraulic Height |
41.1 |
Drainage Area |
44.2 |
Nid Storage |
5349 |
Structural Height |
55.3 |
Hazard Potential |
High |
Nid Height |
55 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
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.
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