Cane Creek Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Cane Creek is a state-owned recreational dam located in Lincoln, Arkansas.


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Summary

Built in 1989 by the USDA NRCS, this Earth dam stands at a height of 27 feet and spans a length of 21,000 feet. With a maximum storage capacity of 22,600 acre-feet and a normal storage of 9,800 acre-feet, Cane Creek covers a surface area of 1,620 acres and has a drainage area of 21 square miles.

The dam, situated on Cane Creek tributary of Bayou Bartholomew, is regulated and inspected by the Arkansas Natural Resources Commission. It has a significant hazard potential and a moderate risk assessment rating. While the dam has uncontrolled spillways and outlet gates, it does not have any associated locks. The last inspection of Cane Creek was conducted in July 2013, with the condition assessment marked as "Not Rated" at that time.

For water resource and climate enthusiasts, Cane Creek offers a fascinating glimpse into the intersection of human engineering and environmental conservation. As a recreational dam, it provides opportunities for outdoor activities while serving the important function of water storage and management. With its unique design and regulatory oversight, Cane Creek stands as a testament to the careful balance required in harnessing natural resources for human use.

Year Completed

1989

Dam Length

21000

Dam Height

27

River Or Stream

CANE CRK TRB BAYOU BARTHO

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

1620

Drainage Area

21

Nid Storage

22600

Outlet Gates

Uncontrolled

Hazard Potential

Significant

Nid Height

27
       
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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.