Southern Lake Dam Reservoir Report
Nearby: Eason Lake Dam Voss Lake Dam
Last Updated: January 12, 2026
Southern Lake Dam, located in St.
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Summary
Charles, Arkansas, is a privately owned structure built for recreational purposes. Completed in 1950, this earth dam stands at a structural height of 26 feet with a hydraulic height of 21 feet. It has a storage capacity of 696 acre-feet and covers a surface area of 45.5 acres, serving the White River-Tr drainage area.
Despite being categorized as a low hazard potential structure with a "Not Rated" condition assessment, Southern Lake Dam lacks certain regulatory oversight as it is not state-regulated, inspected, permitted, or enforced. The dam does not have an Emergency Action Plan (EAP) in place, nor does it have updated inundation maps or risk assessment measures. While the dam serves primarily for recreational purposes, its lack of comprehensive risk management strategies raises concerns for potential emergencies.
As water resource and climate enthusiasts, it is essential to monitor and advocate for the proper maintenance and oversight of dams like Southern Lake Dam to ensure the safety of surrounding communities and the preservation of water resources. Collaborative efforts between private owners, state agencies, and the community can help address the regulatory gaps and implement necessary safety measures for the sustainable management of this vital infrastructure.
Year Completed |
1950 |
Dam Length |
512 |
River Or Stream |
WHITE RIVER-TR |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
45.5 |
Hydraulic Height |
21 |
Drainage Area |
0.54 |
Nid Storage |
696 |
Structural Height |
26 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Nid Height |
26 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
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.
Southern Lake Dam