Storm Creek Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Storm Creek, a federally-owned dam located in Helena, Arkansas, serves as a vital resource for fish and wildlife conservation and recreational activities.


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Summary

Built in 1939 by the USDA Forest Service, this earth dam stands at a height of 57 feet and spans a length of 1330 feet, with a storage capacity of 7650 acre-feet and a surface area of 510 acres. The dam is equipped with a controlled spillway and valve outlet gates, ensuring efficient water management and flood control in the area.

Despite being classified as a low hazard potential structure, Storm Creek poses a very high risk due to its location and potential impact on the surrounding environment. With a drainage area of 9 square miles and a maximum discharge rate of 522 cubic feet per second, the dam requires regular inspections and maintenance to ensure its structural integrity and safety. The last inspection in 2015 revealed the dam to be in satisfactory condition, although its emergency action plan and risk management measures have not been fully assessed.

As water resource and climate enthusiasts, it is crucial to monitor and support the maintenance of dams like Storm Creek to protect the local ecosystem and water supply. By understanding the significance of these structures in managing water resources and mitigating potential risks, we can work towards sustainable practices that preserve the natural environment and ensure the safety of communities downstream.

Year Completed

1939

Dam Length

1330

Dam Height

57

River Or Stream

STORM CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

510

Drainage Area

9

Nid Storage

7650

Structural Height

57

Outlet Gates

Valve

Hazard Potential

Low

Nid Height

57
       
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.