Green Bear Lake Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Green Bear Lake Dam, located in Pulaski, Arkansas, is a privately owned structure with its primary purpose being recreation.


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Summary

Built in 1975 by the USDA NRCS, this earth dam has a hydraulic height of 15 feet and a structural height of 18 feet, providing a maximum storage capacity of 58 acre-feet. The dam, situated on McHenry Creek, serves as a low hazard potential structure with a moderate risk assessment rating.

Despite not being regulated by the state, Green Bear Lake Dam remains an important feature for water resource and climate enthusiasts in the area. With its uncontrolled spillway type and a maximum discharge of 514 cubic feet per second, the dam contributes to the overall management of water resources in the region. Although its condition is currently not rated, the dam's risk assessment level suggests a need for moderate risk management measures to ensure its continued safety and functionality.

As a key element in the recreational landscape of Little Rock, Green Bear Lake Dam offers both environmental and leisure opportunities for visitors. With its picturesque location and moderate risk profile, the dam serves as a valuable asset in the community, providing a balance between water resource management and recreational enjoyment. For enthusiasts interested in the intersection of water resources and climate resilience, Green Bear Lake Dam stands as a fascinating example of human-built infrastructure in harmony with nature.

Year Completed

1975

Dam Length

972

River Or Stream

MCHENRY CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Hydraulic Height

15

Nid Storage

58

Structural Height

18

Hazard Potential

Low

Nid Height

18
       
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.