Mcadams Lake Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Mcadams Lake Dam, located in Howard County, Arkansas, was completed in 1969 for the primary purpose of recreation.


°F

°F

mph

Wind

%

Humidity

Summary

This earth dam stands at a height of 22 feet and has a hydraulic height of 20 feet, with a length of 525 feet. The dam has a storage capacity of 64 acre-feet, with a normal storage capacity of 48 acre-feet, making it a vital water resource for the region.

Despite being privately owned, Mcadams Lake Dam is not regulated by the state, with no inspection, enforcement, or permitting requirements. The dam is situated on the Blue Bayou-TR river and falls under the jurisdiction of the Little Rock District of the US Army Corps of Engineers. With a low hazard potential and a condition assessment currently not rated, the dam serves as a recreational attraction while contributing to the local water ecosystem.

Although lacking in certain regulatory aspects, Mcadams Lake Dam plays a crucial role in water management and recreation in the area. With its scenic location and storage capacity, the dam stands as a testament to the importance of sustainable water resource management in the face of changing climates and increasing demands. Enthusiasts and conservationists alike can appreciate the significance of this structure in maintaining a balance between human needs and environmental preservation.

Year Completed

1969

Dam Length

525

Dam Height

22

River Or Stream

BLUE BAYOU-TR

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Hydraulic Height

20

Nid Storage

64

Structural Height

22

Hazard Potential

Low

Nid Height

22
       
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.