Bates Lake Dam Reservoir Report
Nearby: Baltz Lake Dam Harold Baltz Lake Dam
Last Updated: December 5, 2025
Bates Lake Dam, located in Pocahontas, Arkansas, was completed in 1968 for the primary purpose of recreation.
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Summary
Managed by a private owner, this earth dam stands at a structural height of 25 feet and has a hydraulic height of 22 feet, with a length of 454 feet. The dam has a moderate risk assessment rating and a low hazard potential, making it a relatively safe structure in terms of potential damage and risk to the surrounding area.
The dam's reservoir has a storage capacity of 70 acre-feet, with a normal storage level of 44 acre-feet. It is situated on Mansker Creek, a tributary of the larger Black River system. Despite not being regulated by the state or federal agencies, Bates Lake Dam is periodically inspected to ensure its structural integrity and overall safety. The spillway is uncontrolled with a width of 0 feet, and there are no associated locks or outlet gates with the dam.
Water resource and climate enthusiasts can appreciate Bates Lake Dam for its role in providing recreational opportunities in the area, as well as for its unique design and risk assessment. While not a large or high-hazard dam, its presence on Mansker Creek contributes to the local water management system and adds to the natural beauty of the surrounding landscape. With its low hazard potential and moderate risk assessment, Bates Lake Dam continues to serve its intended purpose while maintaining a level of safety and security for nearby residents and visitors.
Year Completed |
1968 |
Dam Length |
454 |
River Or Stream |
MANSKER CREEK-TR |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Hydraulic Height |
22 |
Nid Storage |
70 |
Structural Height |
25 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Nid Height |
25 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Black River At Pocahontas
|
3170cfs |
Elevenpoint River Near Ravenden Springs
|
652cfs |
Spring River At Imboden
|
563cfs |
Black River At Black Rock
|
4380cfs |
Current River At Doniphan
|
1940cfs |
Black River Near Corning
|
896cfs |
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.
Bates Lake Dam