Wolf Bayou Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Wolf Bayou Dam, located in Arkansas, is a federal structure managed by the Fish and Wildlife Service.


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Summary

This earth dam stands 13 feet tall and stretches 1050 feet in length, with a storage capacity of 4768 acre-feet. The dam is equipped with a controlled spillway with a width of 240 feet and has a low hazard potential, despite a poor condition assessment as of 2014.

Although the dam has not been modified since its construction, it poses a very high risk due to its age and condition. With a drainage area of 24.9 square miles and a maximum discharge of 720 cubic feet per second, Wolf Bayou Dam plays a crucial role in managing water resources in the region. Despite its poor condition, the dam continues to serve its purpose effectively, highlighting the importance of ongoing maintenance and risk management measures for critical infrastructure like Wolf Bayou Dam.

Enthusiasts interested in water resource management and climate adaptation can appreciate the complexities involved in maintaining aging infrastructure like Wolf Bayou Dam. With its unique design and historical significance, this federal structure serves as a reminder of the essential role dams play in regulating water flow, protecting downstream communities, and supporting ecological habitats. As discussions on climate change intensify, understanding the risks associated with structures like Wolf Bayou Dam becomes increasingly crucial for ensuring resilience in the face of evolving environmental challenges.

Dam Length

1050

Dam Height

13

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

797.9

Drainage Area

24.9

Nid Storage

4768

Outlet Gates

Other Controlled

Hazard Potential

Low

Nid Height

13
       
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.