Edwards Lake Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Edwards Lake Dam, located in Newton, Arkansas, is a privately owned structure that serves primarily for recreational purposes.


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Summary

Completed in 1977, this earth dam stands at a height of 53 feet, with a hydraulic height of 39 feet and a length of 490 feet. The dam has a storage capacity of 296 acre-feet and a normal storage level of 156 acre-feet, covering a surface area of 7 acres.

Managed by the Arkansas Natural Resources Commission (ANRC), the Edwards Lake Dam is regulated and inspected by the state, ensuring its safety and compliance with regulations. Despite being rated as having low hazard potential and not currently assessed for condition, regular inspections are conducted to maintain the dam's integrity. While there are no associated locks or spillways, the dam's maximum discharge capacity is 6000 cubic feet per second, providing important flood protection for the surrounding area along Cove Creek-Tr.

Overall, Edwards Lake Dam presents an important recreational and safety asset for the community in Newton, Arkansas. With its modest size and low hazard potential, the dam contributes to the local environment while providing opportunities for outdoor activities such as fishing and boating. The state's oversight and maintenance of the dam ensure its continued functionality and safety for residents and visitors alike.

Year Completed

1977

Dam Length

490

Dam Height

53

River Or Stream

COVE CREEK-TR

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

7

Hydraulic Height

39

Nid Storage

296

Structural Height

53

Hazard Potential

Low

Nid Height

53
       
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.