Seven Devils Swamp Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Seven Devils Swamp Dam in Drew, Arkansas, built in 1955 by USDA NRCS, stands as a significant flood risk reduction structure along the Cut-Off Creek.


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Summary

With a hydraulic height of 8 feet and a structural height of 12 feet, this earth dam spans 5100 feet and provides a storage capacity of 560 acre-feet. The dam serves multiple purposes including flood risk reduction and recreation, making it a vital resource for the local community.

Despite its moderate risk assessment of 3, the dam's hazard potential is deemed significant, highlighting the need for ongoing monitoring and maintenance. With no state regulation or inspection in place, the responsibility for the upkeep of Seven Devils Swamp Dam falls solely on the state of Arkansas. This underscores the importance of proactive risk management measures to ensure the safety and longevity of this crucial infrastructure.

As a water resource and climate enthusiast, the unique characteristics and challenges surrounding Seven Devils Swamp Dam present an intriguing case study. From its construction by the USDA NRCS to its current condition assessment of "Not Rated," this dam serves as a focal point for exploring the intersection of infrastructure, environmental stewardship, and community resilience in the face of changing climate patterns.

Year Completed

1955

Dam Length

5100

River Or Stream

CUT-OFF CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Hydraulic Height

8

Nid Storage

560

Structural Height

12

Hazard Potential

Significant

Nid Height

12
       
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.