Cedar-Piney Creeks Watershed Site 3 Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Located in the heart of Arkansas, Cedar-Piney Creeks Watershed Site 3 is a vital piece of infrastructure designed by the USDA NRCS to manage flood risk along the picturesque Little Piney Creek.


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Summary

Completed in 1994, this earth dam stands at a height of 47 feet and spans 2275 feet, providing essential flood protection to the surrounding area. With a storage capacity of 1296 acre-feet and a maximum discharge rate of 10,060 cubic feet per second, this dam plays a crucial role in mitigating the impact of heavy rainfall and ensuring the safety of nearby communities.

Managed by the local government and regulated by the ANRC, Cedar-Piney Creeks Watershed Site 3 is classified as having a high hazard potential, emphasizing the importance of regular inspections and maintenance. Despite its high risk assessment, the condition of the dam has not been rated, highlighting the need for ongoing monitoring and risk management measures. As climate change continues to impact water resources and increase the frequency of extreme weather events, the significance of structures like Cedar-Piney Creeks Watershed Site 3 in safeguarding communities and preserving natural habitats cannot be overstated.

For water resource and climate enthusiasts, Cedar-Piney Creeks Watershed Site 3 serves as a fascinating example of the intersection between infrastructure, environmental conservation, and community resilience. As efforts to address the challenges of climate change accelerate, understanding the role of dams and flood control structures in protecting vulnerable regions becomes ever more crucial. With its strategic location in Yell County, Arkansas, this earth dam stands as a testament to proactive flood risk reduction measures and the collaborative efforts of government agencies and conservation groups in safeguarding our valuable water resources for future generations.

Year Completed

1994

Dam Length

2275

Dam Height

47

River Or Stream

LITTLE PINEY CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

17

Hydraulic Height

47

Drainage Area

2

Nid Storage

1296

Structural Height

55

Outlet Gates

Uncontrolled

Hazard Potential

High

Nid Height

55
       
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.