Big Pond Dam Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 5, 2025
Big Pond Dam in Lonoke, Arkansas, stands as a testament to effective water resource management and irrigation infrastructure.
°F
°F
mph
Wind
%
Humidity
Summary
Completed in 1965 by the USDA NRCS, this private-owned Earth dam serves primarily for irrigation purposes, with additional recreational benefits. The dam has a height of 16 feet and a storage capacity of 101 acre-feet, providing water for agricultural activities in the region.
Despite its low hazard potential, the dam's risk assessment indicates a moderate risk level, emphasizing the importance of ongoing monitoring and maintenance. The dam's spillway type is uncontrolled, with a maximum discharge of 25 cubic feet per second. Its location along the Wattensaw Bayou-TR makes it a vital component of the area's water management system, ensuring a stable water supply for local farms and communities. With a surface area of 7.1 acres and a drainage area of 0.5 square miles, Big Pond Dam plays a crucial role in the sustainable utilization of water resources in the region.
As a key piece of infrastructure in the Memphis District, Big Pond Dam highlights the collaborative efforts between private ownership and federal agencies in enhancing water resource management. With its historical significance and ongoing relevance in providing irrigation water, this dam serves as a model for sustainable water use practices in the face of changing climate conditions. The dam's condition assessment may not be rated, but its operational efficiency and impact on the surrounding ecosystem make it a valuable asset for water resource and climate enthusiasts alike.
Year Completed |
1965 |
Dam Length |
579 |
Dam Height |
16 |
River Or Stream |
WATTENSAW BAYOU-TR |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
7.1 |
Hydraulic Height |
12 |
Drainage Area |
0.5 |
Nid Storage |
101 |
Structural Height |
16 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Nid Height |
16 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Bayou Meto Near Lonoke
|
100cfs |
White River At Devalls Bluff
|
10700cfs |
White River At Georgetown
|
11200cfs |
Cache River Near Cotton Plant
|
104cfs |
White River Near Augusta
|
11700cfs |
Little Red River Near Dewey
|
2100cfs |
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