Lake Austell Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Lake Austell in Arkansas is a state-owned reservoir with a primary purpose of recreation.


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Summary

The dam, completed in 1975, is an earth structure standing at 45 feet high and 960 feet long, creating a storage capacity of 1,390 acre-feet. Situated on Willow Creek in Cross County, Arkansas, the reservoir covers 66 acres with a maximum discharge rate of 2,645 cubic feet per second.

Despite being classified as a low hazard potential structure, Lake Austell provides a scenic escape for water resource and climate enthusiasts, offering a tranquil setting for outdoor activities such as boating, fishing, and wildlife observation. The reservoir is under the jurisdiction of the Arkansas Natural Resources Commission (ANRC) and is subject to state regulation, permitting, inspection, and enforcement to ensure its safe operation and maintenance. With a condition assessment of "Not Rated," Lake Austell remains a picturesque destination for nature lovers to enjoy the beauty of the Arkansas landscape.

Year Completed

1975

Dam Length

960

Dam Height

45

River Or Stream

WILLOW CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

66

Hydraulic Height

23

Drainage Area

1

Nid Storage

1390

Structural Height

40

Hazard Potential

Low

Nid Height

45
       
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.