Cox Lake Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Cox Lake Dam, located in Polk County, Arkansas, is a rockfill dam completed in 1958 with a primary purpose of recreation.


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Summary

The dam stands at a height of 23 feet and has a storage capacity of 88 acre-feet. Situated on Prairie Creek, the dam offers opportunities for outdoor activities such as boating, fishing, and hiking in the scenic surroundings of Mena.

While the dam is not regulated by the state and has not been rated for its condition, it is considered to have a significant hazard potential. Despite lacking recent inspections and emergency action plans, Cox Lake Dam remains a popular destination for water resource and climate enthusiasts seeking to enjoy the beauty of the surrounding area and engage in recreational activities. The dam's location in the Vicksburg District provides a unique opportunity to explore the natural landscape of Arkansas while also recognizing the importance of proper dam maintenance and safety measures.

Year Completed

1958

Dam Length

420

Dam Height

23

River Or Stream

PRAIRIE CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Rockfill

Hydraulic Height

20

Nid Storage

88

Structural Height

23

Hazard Potential

Significant

Nid Height

23
       
Seasonal Comparison

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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.