Hillcrest Lake Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Hillcrest Lake Dam, located in Polk County, Arkansas, is a privately owned earth dam completed in 1968 for the primary purpose of recreation.


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Summary

Standing at a height of 25.7 feet and holding a maximum storage capacity of 72.2 acre-feet, this dam on the Ouachita Creek-TR provides a serene setting for water resource and climate enthusiasts to enjoy various outdoor activities. The dam's normal storage capacity is 57 acre-feet, with a surface area of 11 acres and a drainage area of 0.08 square miles.

Despite its recreational benefits, Hillcrest Lake Dam has a high hazard potential and is not currently rated for its condition. The dam's last inspection was conducted in March 2017, and it is regularly monitored for safety and regulatory compliance by the Arkansas Natural Resources Commission. While the dam does not have a spillway, its maximum discharge capacity is 627 cubic feet per second, ensuring proper water management during periods of high flow.

With its picturesque location in Mena, Arkansas, Hillcrest Lake Dam serves as a vital water resource for the community while also offering a peaceful retreat for outdoor enthusiasts. The dam's importance lies in its role in providing recreational opportunities and contributing to the overall water management strategy in the region. As efforts continue to ensure the safety and maintenance of this earth dam, it remains a focal point for those interested in water resource management and climate resilience in the area.

Year Completed

1968

Dam Length

532

Dam Height

25.7

River Or Stream

OUACHITA CREEK-TR

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

11

Hydraulic Height

24.4

Drainage Area

0.08

Nid Storage

72.2

Hazard Potential

High

Nid Height

26
       
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.