Dougherty Lake Dam Reservoir Report
Nearby: Lake Mirror Dam Deer Run Lake Dam
Last Updated: December 5, 2025
Dougherty Lake Dam, located in Sharp, Arkansas, is a privately owned structure built in 1972 primarily for recreational purposes.
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Summary
The dam stands at 45 feet high with a hydraulic height of 34 feet and a structural height of 40 feet. It spans a length of 420 feet and can store up to 500 acre-feet of water, with a normal storage capacity of 476 acre-feet. The dam is situated on Little Creek and has a surface area of 18.5 acres, serving as a popular spot for outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers.
Despite its low hazard potential, Dougherty Lake Dam is regulated by the Arkansas Natural Resources Commission (ANRC) and is subject to state inspection, permitting, and enforcement. The dam has not been rated for its condition assessment, and its last inspection was conducted in September 2011. While the dam does not have a spillway or outlet gates, it does have a maximum discharge capacity of 530 cubic feet per second. The surrounding area offers a picturesque setting for outdoor activities and serves as a vital water resource for the local community.
With a rich history dating back to the early 1970s, Dougherty Lake Dam continues to provide valuable recreational opportunities and water storage capacity for the residents of Sharp, Arkansas. The dam's presence on Little Creek contributes to the overall ecological health of the region and supports various outdoor activities such as fishing, boating, and birdwatching. As a privately owned structure, Dougherty Lake Dam plays a crucial role in maintaining the balance between human enjoyment of the area and the conservation of its natural resources, making it a significant landmark for water resource and climate enthusiasts alike.
Year Completed |
1972 |
Dam Length |
420 |
Dam Height |
45 |
River Or Stream |
LITTLE CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
18.5 |
Hydraulic Height |
34 |
Drainage Area |
1.25 |
Nid Storage |
500 |
Structural Height |
40 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Nid Height |
45 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Spring River At Town Branch Bridge At Hardy
|
401cfs |
White River At Batesville
|
43800cfs |
White River At Calico Rock
|
12100cfs |
Mammoth Spring At Mammoth Spring
|
428cfs |
Spring River At Imboden
|
558cfs |
North Sylamore Creek Near Fifty Six
|
6cfs |
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.
Dougherty Lake Dam