South Fourche Lafave Wid Site 8 Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

South Fourche Lafave Wid Site 8, located in Perry County, Arkansas, is a flood risk reduction structure designed by the USDA NRCS and completed in 1986.


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Summary

This earth dam stands at a height of 55 feet and stretches 953 feet in length, providing a storage capacity of 2206 acre-feet to mitigate potential flooding from the nearby Huston Creek. The dam, which is state-regulated and inspected, has a low hazard potential and is currently rated as "Not Rated" in terms of condition assessment.

This crucial infrastructure plays a vital role in protecting the surrounding area from flood risks, with a normal storage capacity of 309 acre-feet and the ability to discharge up to 3865 cubic feet per second in times of high water flow. While categorized as having a moderate risk level, South Fourche Lafave Wid Site 8 remains an essential component of the local water resource management system, ensuring the safety and security of nearby residents and properties. The dam operates with uncontrolled spillways and outlets, with no associated locks or gates for water flow regulation.

Managed by the Natural Resources Conservation Service, South Fourche Lafave Wid Site 8 exemplifies the collaborative efforts between local government agencies and federal organizations to address climate-related challenges and protect communities from the impacts of extreme weather events. With its strategic location in the Vicksburg District of the USACE, this dam stands as a testament to the importance of proactive flood risk reduction measures in preserving the natural landscape and safeguarding the well-being of those living in the region.

Year Completed

1986

Dam Length

953

Dam Height

55

River Or Stream

HUSTON CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

32

Drainage Area

4.1

Nid Storage

2206

Outlet Gates

Uncontrolled

Hazard Potential

Low

Nid Height

55
       
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.