Sleepy Valley Upper Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Sleepy Valley Upper Dam, also known as Upper Dam, is a private recreational structure located in Garland, Arkansas.


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Summary

Built in 1960, this Earth type dam stands at a height of 15 feet with a hydraulic height of 16 feet. It is situated on Gulpha Creek in the picturesque setting of GULPHA GORGE CAMPGROUND, offering visitors a serene and scenic spot for outdoor activities.

With a storage capacity of 12 acre-feet, Sleepy Valley Upper Dam serves primarily for recreational purposes. While not regulated by the state, it is classified as having a significant hazard potential. Despite its age, the dam has not been rated for its current condition as it last underwent inspection in 1992. The dam's emergency action plan and risk management measures remain unclear, highlighting potential areas for improvement in the future.

As a vital part of the local water resource infrastructure, Sleepy Valley Upper Dam provides both recreational opportunities and potential risks to the surrounding area. Enthusiasts of water resources and climate change may find this structure intriguing for its historical significance and potential implications for environmental management in the region.

Year Completed

1960

Dam Length

81

River Or Stream

GULPHA CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Hydraulic Height

16

Nid Storage

12

Structural Height

15

Hazard Potential

Significant

Nid Height

16
       
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.