Mcgaughey Lake Dam Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 5, 2025
Mcgaughey Lake Dam, located in Crocketts Bluff, Arkansas, is a privately-owned structure that was completed in 1961 for the primary purpose of recreation.
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Summary
The dam stands at a height of 25 feet and has a hydraulic height of 22 feet, with a length of 320 feet. It has a storage capacity of 82 acre-feet, with a normal storage level of 70 acre-feet, covering a surface area of 2.8 acres.
Despite being classified as a low hazard potential structure, the dam has not been inspected since May 1998 and is currently rated as "Not Rated" in terms of its condition assessment. The dam is situated on the White River tributary and is not regulated by the state, with no state permitting, inspection, or enforcement in place. While it serves a recreational purpose, the dam's lack of recent inspection raises concerns about its safety and maintenance.
With a maximum discharge capacity of 468 cubic feet per second, the Mcgaughey Lake Dam plays a crucial role in managing water resources in the area. However, the lack of recent inspections and maintenance raises questions about the long-term sustainability and safety of this earth dam. Climate and water resource enthusiasts may find interest in the potential risks and management measures needed to ensure the continued functionality and safety of this important structure.
Year Completed |
1961 |
Dam Length |
320 |
Dam Height |
25 |
River Or Stream |
WHITE RIVER TRIB |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
2.8 |
Hydraulic Height |
22 |
Drainage Area |
0.06 |
Nid Storage |
82 |
Structural Height |
25 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Nid Height |
25 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
White River At Devalls Bluff
|
10700cfs |
Cache River Near Cotton Plant
|
104cfs |
Languille River At Palestine
|
11cfs |
Bayou Meto Near Lonoke
|
100cfs |
White River At Georgetown
|
11200cfs |
Big Sunflower River At Clarksdale
|
58cfs |
Dam Data Reference
Condition Assessment
SatisfactoryNo 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
HighDams 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.
Mcgaughey Lake Dam