Mill Pond Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Mill Pond Dam, located in Caney Valley, Arkansas, was completed in 1919 and serves as a vital water supply infrastructure in the area.


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Summary

The dam, primarily owned by a private entity, stands at a structural height of 20 feet with a hydraulic height of 17 feet, impounding the waters of Bigsby Branch. With a storage capacity of 80 acre-feet, the dam plays a crucial role in ensuring water availability for the local community, especially during times of need.

Despite being categorized as having a low hazard potential, Mill Pond Dam has not been rated for its condition assessment. It is not regulated by the state and does not require inspection or enforcement. The dam has a maximum discharge capacity of 545 cubic feet per second and a normal storage capacity of 47 acre-feet. Although it has not been modified in recent years, the dam continues to serve its primary purpose efficiently, demonstrating its importance in the region's water resource management.

With its rockfill construction and historical significance dating back over a century, Mill Pond Dam stands as a key landmark in Pike County, Arkansas. The dam's significance lies not only in its water supply function but also in its role in shaping the local landscape and providing recreational opportunities for residents. As climate change continues to impact water resources, the maintenance and management of structures like Mill Pond Dam are essential to ensure the sustainable use of water for the community's benefit.

Year Completed

1919

Dam Length

480

River Or Stream

BIGSBY BRANCH

Primary Dam Type

Rockfill

Hydraulic Height

17

Nid Storage

80

Structural Height

20

Hazard Potential

Low

Nid Height

20
       
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.