Lake Erling Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Lake Erling Dam, also known as Percy Cobb Dam, is a private-owned structure located in Lafayette County, Arkansas.


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Summary

Completed in 1956, this rockfill dam serves primarily for recreation and water supply purposes, with a storage capacity of 138,250 acre-feet and a surface area of 2,350 acres. The dam stands at 43 feet high, with a hydraulic height of 30 feet and a structural height of 42 feet, contributing to its significant hazard potential.

Managed by the Arkansas Natural Resources Commission (ANRC), Lake Erling Dam is subject to state regulation, permitting, inspection, and enforcement. Situated on the Bodcau River, the dam not only provides recreational opportunities but also plays a crucial role in water resource management for the surrounding area. With a maximum discharge capacity of 8,000 cubic feet per second, the dam ensures the safety and sustainability of the water supply for the community.

Despite its age, Lake Erling Dam has not been rated for its condition assessment, and details regarding emergency preparedness, risk assessment, and management measures are not readily available. However, the dam's location in a highly regulated state and its compliance with inspection and permitting requirements suggest a commitment to maintaining its structural integrity and safeguarding the water resources it manages for the benefit of the region.

Year Completed

1956

Dam Length

4390

Dam Height

43

River Or Stream

BODCAU

Primary Dam Type

Rockfill

Surface Area

2350

Hydraulic Height

30

Drainage Area

408

Nid Storage

138250

Structural Height

42

Hazard Potential

Significant

Nid Height

43
       
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.