Gardner Lake Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Located in Baxter, Arkansas, Gardner Lake Dam stands as a private recreational structure on the Little Pigeon Creek-TR.


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Summary

Completed in 1970, this earth dam boasts a height of 24 feet and a maximum storage capacity of 96 acre-feet. With a primary purpose of recreation, the dam offers opportunities for outdoor enthusiasts to enjoy the surrounding area, including fishing and boating activities.

Managed by the Little Rock District of the US Army Corps of Engineers, Gardner Lake Dam has a significant hazard potential and is currently not rated for its condition assessment. Despite its age, the dam continues to provide essential water resource management functions, supporting the local ecosystem and recreational activities in the Spring Lake Estates area. The structure's design and construction represent a vital piece of Arkansas's infrastructure, ensuring the safety and enjoyment of residents and visitors alike.

As an important component of the region's water resource infrastructure, Gardner Lake Dam serves as a valuable asset for both environmental conservation and recreational purposes. While its condition assessment is currently not rated, ongoing maintenance and monitoring efforts are crucial to ensuring the dam's long-term reliability and safety. With its picturesque location and significant storage capacity, Gardner Lake Dam remains a cherished destination for water resource and climate enthusiasts seeking to explore the beauty and functionality of Arkansas's diverse landscape.

Year Completed

1970

Dam Length

595

Dam Height

24

River Or Stream

LITTLE PIGEON CREEK-TR

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Hydraulic Height

15

Nid Storage

96

Structural Height

24

Hazard Potential

Significant

Nid Height

24
       
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.