Poinsett Wid Site 11 Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 6, 2025
Poinsett Wid Site 11, located in Poinsett, Arkansas, is a local government-owned recreational dam built in 1979 by the USDA NRCS.
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Summary
The dam stands at 22 feet tall and spans 1160 feet, with a storage capacity of 157 acre-feet and a surface area of 20.6 acres. It is situated on Big Creek - TR and falls under the jurisdiction of the Little Rock District.
Despite being classified as having a low hazard potential, Poinsett Wid Site 11 poses a moderate risk (3) due to its uncontrolled spillway and outlet gates. The dam has not been rated for its condition assessment, and the last inspection was conducted in March 2016. While it does not meet the guidelines for an Emergency Action Plan (EAP) or have inundation maps prepared, the risk management measures for this structure remain unspecified.
For water resource and climate enthusiasts, Poinsett Wid Site 11 offers a glimpse into the intricate network of dams that dot the American landscape. With its recreational purpose and ties to the Natural Resources Conservation Service, this dam provides valuable insights into the intersection of human intervention and environmental stewardship in managing water resources. As discussions around climate change and water security continue to gain prominence, structures like Poinsett Wid Site 11 serve as important focal points for understanding the complex dynamics at play in ensuring sustainable water management practices.
Year Completed |
1979 |
Dam Length |
1160 |
Dam Height |
22 |
River Or Stream |
BIG CREEK - TR |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
20.6 |
Drainage Area |
0.5 |
Nid Storage |
157 |
Outlet Gates |
Uncontrolled |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Nid Height |
22 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Cache River At Egypt
|
21cfs |
White River At Newport
|
11300cfs |
Languille River Near Colt
|
12cfs |
Black River At Elgin Ferry
|
3780cfs |
Black River At Black Rock
|
4290cfs |
Black River At Pocahontas
|
3110cfs |
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.
Poinsett Wid Site 11