Chenault Reservoir Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Chenault Reservoir Dam, located in Benton, Arkansas, is a local government-owned structure that serves as a critical water supply source for the surrounding community.


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Summary

Completed in 2001, the earth dam stands at a height of 29 feet and spans a length of 10,940 feet, with a storage capacity of 2,400 acre-feet. Despite its relatively small surface area of 100 acres, the dam plays a vital role in ensuring reliable water access for residents in Saline County.

Managed by the Arkansas Natural Resources Commission, the Chenault Reservoir Dam is regulated and inspected regularly to maintain its structural integrity and operational efficiency. The dam's high hazard potential necessitates stringent monitoring and emergency preparedness measures, although its condition assessment is currently listed as "Not Rated." With no associated structures and a limited spillway width of 0 feet, the dam's risk management measures and emergency action plans are essential components in safeguarding the local population from potential inundation risks.

As part of the Little Rock District, Chenault Reservoir Dam's primary purpose as a water supply infrastructure underscores its critical role in sustaining the region's water resources amidst changing climate conditions. The dam's construction and operational oversight highlight the collaborative efforts between local and state agencies to ensure the safety and reliability of the water supply system. With ongoing risk assessments and regulatory compliance measures, Chenault Reservoir Dam stands as a testament to proactive water resource management in the face of environmental challenges.

Year Completed

2001

Dam Length

10940

Dam Height

29

River Or Stream

NONE

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

100

Nid Storage

2400

Hazard Potential

High

Nid Height

29
       
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.