Sowell Lake Dam Reservoir Report
Nearby: Lake Lisbon Dam Harris Lake Dam
Last Updated: December 13, 2025
Sowell Lake Dam, located in Union, Arkansas, was completed in 1966 and serves as a vital water resource for the surrounding area.
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Summary
The dam, primarily used for recreation purposes, stands at a structural height of 8 feet with a hydraulic height of 6 feet. With a storage capacity of 140 acre-feet and a surface area of 27 acres, the dam plays a crucial role in managing water flow and providing a scenic spot for outdoor activities.
Managed by a private entity, Sowell Lake Dam has a low hazard potential and is currently not rated for its condition assessment. Despite not being regulated or inspected by the state, the dam continues to stand as a reliable structure for water storage and recreational use. With a maximum discharge capacity of 312 cubic feet per second, the dam ensures proper water management for the Richland Creek-TR watershed.
Although lacking in detailed risk assessment and emergency preparedness measures, Sowell Lake Dam remains a significant feature in the region's water infrastructure. The dam's location in a picturesque setting and its contribution to water conservation make it a valuable asset for both water resource enthusiasts and climate advocates.
Year Completed |
1966 |
Dam Length |
2500 |
River Or Stream |
RICHLAND CREEK-TR |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
27 |
Hydraulic Height |
6 |
Drainage Area |
0.4 |
Nid Storage |
140 |
Structural Height |
8 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Nid Height |
8 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Smackover Creek Near Smackover
|
56cfs |
Ouachita River At Camden
|
1170cfs |
Little Corney Bayou Near Lillie
|
94cfs |
Bayou Dorcheat Near Springhill
|
103cfs |
Moro Creek Near Fordyce
|
1580cfs |
Saline River Near Rye
|
271cfs |
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.
Sowell Lake Dam