Summary
Built in 1968 by the US Army Corps of Engineers, the dam serves primarily for flood risk reduction but also supports recreation and water supply purposes. With a height of 67 feet and a length of 8375 feet, Marion Dam has a storage capacity of 189,200 acre-feet and covers a surface area of 6210 acres.
The dam is classified as having a high hazard potential, primarily due to the risk of water erosion leading to breach. In the event of a failure, downstream communities such as Marion, Florence, Cedar Point, Elmdale, and Strong City would be impacted. Despite this risk, the USACE has implemented various risk management measures including emergency exercises, regular inspections, and a detailed communication plan. Additionally, the dam is equipped with instrumentation and monitoring systems to detect any changes in conditions.
Overall, Marion Dam plays a crucial role in mitigating flood risks in the region and is actively maintained to ensure the safety of surrounding communities. Its strategic location on the Cottonwood River underscores the importance of proper risk management practices to safeguard against potential threats.
Year Completed |
1968 |
Dam Length |
8375 |
Dam Height |
67 |
River Or Stream |
COTTONWOOD RIVER |
Primary Dam Type |
Gravity |
Surface Area |
6210 |
Hydraulic Height |
62 |
Drainage Area |
200 |
Nid Storage |
189200 |
Structural Height |
67 |
Hazard Potential |
High |
Foundations |
Rock, Soil |
Nid Height |
67 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
N Cottonwood R Bl Marion Lk
|
1cfs |
Cottonwood R Nr Florence
|
123cfs |
Cedar C Nr Cedar Point
|
37cfs |
Gypsum C Nr Gypsum
|
14cfs |
L Arkansas R At Alta Mills
|
14cfs |
L Arkansas R At Hwy 50 Nr Halstead
|
27cfs |
Dam Data Reference
Condition Assessment
SatisfactoryNo 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
HighDams 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.
Marion Dam