Big Pond Dam Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 5, 2025
Big Pond Dam, located in Jonesboro, Arkansas, was completed in 1940 and serves multiple purposes including fire protection, stock, and as a small fish pond.
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Summary
The dam is classified as an earth dam with a hydraulic height of 10 feet and a structural height of 15 feet. With a storage capacity of 54 acre-feet, the dam primarily holds a normal storage of 28 acre-feet. The dam is situated on Turtle Creek-OS and is under the jurisdiction of the state with no federal regulations.
Despite being rated as having a low hazard potential and not currently assessed for condition, Big Pond Dam remains a vital resource for the community. The dam has a maximum discharge of 939 cubic feet per second and a length of 519 feet. While it does not have any associated structures or outlet gates, the dam has not been modified in recent years and lacks inspections and emergency preparedness measures. The dam's location and purpose make it a key asset for water resource management and conservation efforts in the area.
For water resource and climate enthusiasts, Big Pond Dam presents an intriguing case study in the management of small-scale water infrastructure. As a state-owned facility with a history dating back to the mid-20th century, the dam provides valuable storage capacity for fire protection and recreational purposes. However, with limited oversight and maintenance, there are potential risks associated with the dam that warrant further assessment and potential mitigation measures. Given its significance in the local ecosystem and community, ensuring the safety and sustainability of Big Pond Dam is essential for long-term water resource management in the region.
Year Completed |
1940 |
Dam Length |
519 |
River Or Stream |
TURTLE CREEK-OS |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Hydraulic Height |
10 |
Nid Storage |
54 |
Structural Height |
15 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Nid Height |
15 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Cache River At Egypt
|
21cfs |
Black River At Black Rock
|
4380cfs |
Black River At Pocahontas
|
3170cfs |
Black River At Elgin Ferry
|
3850cfs |
Spring River At Imboden
|
563cfs |
White River At Newport
|
12100cfs |
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.
Big Pond Dam