Goforth Lake Dam Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 5, 2025
Goforth Lake Dam, located in Independence County, Arkansas, was completed in 1969 and serves multiple purposes including fire protection, stock, and small fish pond management.
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Summary
The dam, classified as an earth dam, stands at a structural height of 24 feet with a hydraulic height of 20 feet. It impounds the waters of Gravel Creek, creating a reservoir with a normal storage capacity of 40 acre-feet and a maximum storage of 88 acre-feet.
Managed by a private entity, Goforth Lake Dam has a low hazard potential and has not been rated for its condition assessment. Despite its low hazard potential, the dam is equipped to handle a maximum discharge of 320 cubic feet per second. The dam does not fall under state jurisdiction for regulation, inspection, permitting, or enforcement, making it primarily the responsibility of the private owner. While there are no associated structures or locks with the dam, it serves as a vital resource for fire protection, recreational activities, and wildlife management in the area.
With its strategic location and multipurpose design, Goforth Lake Dam plays a crucial role in water resource management and climate resilience efforts in the region. As a key infrastructure for fire protection, stock management, and recreational activities, the dam contributes to the overall water security and ecosystem health of the area. While its low hazard potential suggests minimal risk, ongoing monitoring and maintenance are essential to ensure the continued safety and functionality of Goforth Lake Dam for both human and environmental benefits.
Year Completed |
1969 |
Dam Length |
330 |
River Or Stream |
GRAVEL CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Hydraulic Height |
20 |
Nid Storage |
88 |
Structural Height |
24 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Nid Height |
24 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
White River At Batesville
|
43800cfs |
Black River At Elgin Ferry
|
3780cfs |
White River At Newport
|
11300cfs |
Black River At Black Rock
|
4290cfs |
Little Red River Near Dewey
|
2100cfs |
Spring River At Town Branch Bridge At Hardy
|
401cfs |
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.
Goforth Lake Dam