Old Davidsonville Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Old Davidsonville is a state-owned recreational dam located in Randolph County, Arkansas, along the Black River.


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Summary

Constructed in 1981 by the USDA NRCS, this Earth dam stands at a height of 22 feet and spans 420 feet in length, providing a storage capacity of 136 acre-feet. With a primary purpose of recreation, the dam has a low hazard potential and is currently in "Not Rated" condition.

The dam, managed by the Natural Resources Conservation Service, features an uncontrolled spillway and outlet gates. Surrounded by a surface area of 11 acres and draining a 0.1 square mile drainage area, Old Davidsonville offers a serene setting for outdoor enthusiasts to enjoy fishing, boating, and other water-based activities. Despite being classified as having a moderate risk level, the dam has not been rated for its condition and has not undergone recent inspections, presenting an opportunity for further assessment and risk management measures.

Located within the Memphis District of the US Army Corps of Engineers, Old Davidsonville serves as a valuable resource for the local community and visitors seeking recreational opportunities along the Black River. Its historical significance, coupled with its natural beauty and potential for outdoor enjoyment, make it a noteworthy destination for water resource and climate enthusiasts looking to explore the diverse landscapes of Arkansas.

Year Completed

1981

Dam Length

420

Dam Height

22

River Or Stream

BLACK RIVER-TR

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

11

Drainage Area

0.1

Nid Storage

136

Outlet Gates

Uncontrolled

Hazard Potential

Low

Nid Height

22
       
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.