Gillham Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Gillham Dam, also known as Gillham Lake, is a concrete dam located in Gillham, Arkansas, constructed by the US Army Corps of Engineers in 1975.


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Summary

The primary purpose of the dam is flood risk reduction, with additional functions including recreation and water supply. Standing at a height of 160 feet and spanning a length of 900 feet, the dam has a capacity of 221,800 acre-feet and a surface area of 1,300 acres.

Managed by the US Army Corps of Engineers, Gillham Dam plays a crucial role in mitigating flood risks in the region. Regular inspections and maintenance are conducted to ensure the dam's structural integrity and readiness for emergencies. The dam has a high hazard potential, and the Corps actively engages with local emergency managers and the public to raise awareness and develop emergency response plans.

Despite its risk management measures, all dams, including Gillham Dam, have limitations in their ability to prevent all flooding events. The US Army Corps of Engineers continuously monitors the dam's condition and collaborates with local authorities to enhance readiness and emergency preparedness. As severe weather events can impact water levels, the Corps maintains a proactive approach to address potential risks and ensure the safety and resilience of Gillham Dam and the surrounding community.

Year Completed

1975

Dam Length

900

Dam Height

160

River Or Stream

COSSATOT

Primary Dam Type

Concrete

Surface Area

1300

Hydraulic Height

143

Drainage Area

271

Nid Storage

221800

Structural Height

30

Hazard Potential

High

Foundations

Rock, Soil

Nid Height

160
       
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.