Bridewells Lake Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Bridewells Lake Dam, located in Evening Shade, Arkansas, is a rockfill dam completed in 1959 for the primary purpose of recreation.


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Summary

With a height of 20 feet and a length of 580 feet, the dam holds a maximum storage capacity of 80 acre-feet of water from the Little Bodcaw River. Despite being privately owned and not regulated by the state, the dam has a low hazard potential and is currently rated as "Not Rated" in terms of condition assessment.

This dam provides not only recreational opportunities but also serves as a water supply source for the surrounding area. With a surface area of 10 acres and a drainage area of 0.86 square miles, Bridewells Lake Dam plays a vital role in managing water resources in Hempstead County, Arkansas. Although there are no associated structures or outlet gates, the dam is equipped to handle a maximum discharge of 1200 cubic feet per second.

While Bridewells Lake Dam may not be under state jurisdiction, its importance in both recreation and water supply cannot be understated. Its strategic location and storage capacity make it a key asset in the management of water resources and climate resilience efforts in the region. As an integral part of the local ecosystem, this dam serves as a valuable resource for water enthusiasts and climate advocates alike.

Year Completed

1959

Dam Length

580

Dam Height

20

River Or Stream

LITTLE BODCAW

Primary Dam Type

Rockfill

Surface Area

10

Hydraulic Height

16

Drainage Area

0.86

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.