Emmett Sanders Lock And Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Emmett Sanders Lock and Dam, also known as Pool 4, is a federal structure located in Gillett, Arkansas, along the Arkansas River.


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Summary

Completed in 1968 by the US Army Corps of Engineers, this concrete gravity dam serves primarily for navigation purposes, with secondary benefits for recreation. Standing at a height of 34 feet and a length of 18,400 feet, the dam has a maximum storage capacity of 77,000 acre-feet and covers a surface area of 5,680 acres within a drainage area of 158,658 square miles.

With a significant hazard potential and a very high risk assessment rating, the dam is closely monitored and managed by the US Army Corps of Engineers to address flood risks associated with the structure. Emergency action plans are regularly updated, and maintenance and repairs are conducted as needed to ensure the dam's structural integrity. The Corps works with local emergency managers to raise awareness and develop evacuation plans, aiming to mitigate the effects of severe weather events and potential dam releases. Water resource and climate enthusiasts can find valuable information about the risk management measures in place at Emmett Sanders Lock and Dam to safeguard the surrounding area and water resources.

Year Completed

1968

Dam Length

18400

Dam Height

34

River Or Stream

ARKANSAS

Primary Dam Type

Concrete

Surface Area

5680

Length Of Locks

600

Hydraulic Height

32

Drainage Area

158658

Nid Storage

77000

Structural Height

46

Hazard Potential

Significant

Foundations

Soil

Nid Height

46
       
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.