Sleepy Valley Lower Dam No 2 Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Sleepy Valley Lower Dam No 2, located in Garland County, Arkansas, is a private dam with a primary purpose for recreation.


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Summary

This earth dam, completed in 1960, stands at a hydraulic height of 12 feet and stretches 140 feet in length. The dam is situated on Gulpha Creek near the GULPHA GORGE CAMPGROUND, providing a picturesque backdrop for outdoor enthusiasts and water resource admirers.

Although not regulated by the state, this dam poses a significant hazard potential and has not been rated for its condition. The last inspection took place in 1992, and the frequency of inspections is listed as 0. Emergency preparedness measures such as an Emergency Action Plan (EAP) have not been documented, raising concerns about the dam's ability to withstand potential risks and disasters. With a maximum discharge of 385 cubic feet per second, it is crucial for stakeholders and authorities to prioritize the safety and maintenance of Sleepy Valley Lower Dam No 2 to prevent any potential environmental or human harm.

As a structure that holds a significant amount of water for recreation, maintaining the integrity and safety of Sleepy Valley Lower Dam No 2 is essential for the surrounding community. With no state jurisdiction or permitting requirements in place, it is imperative for private owners to take the responsibility of regular inspections and risk assessments seriously. The proximity of the dam to the GULPHA GORGE CAMPGROUND highlights the importance of ensuring the structural stability and emergency preparedness of Sleepy Valley Lower Dam No 2 for the well-being of all who enjoy the beauty of Gulpha Creek and its surroundings.

Year Completed

1960

Dam Length

140

River Or Stream

GULPHA CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Hydraulic Height

12

Nid Storage

10

Structural Height

12

Hazard Potential

Significant

Nid Height

12
       
Seasonal Comparison

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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.