Riley Lake Dam Reservoir Report
Nearby: Shiloh Lake Dam Stone Lake Dam
Last Updated: December 5, 2025
Riley Lake Dam, located in Ashley County, Arkansas, was completed in 1964 with the primary purpose of providing recreational opportunities for visitors.
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Summary
The dam, designed by the USDA NRCS, is an earth-type structure with a hydraulic height of 9 feet and a structural height of 12 feet. It impounds the Little Bearhouse-TR stream and has a maximum storage capacity of 95 acre-feet, with normal storage totaling 76 acre-feet.
Despite being privately owned and not regulated by the state, Riley Lake Dam has a low hazard potential and is considered to have a moderate risk level. The dam features an uncontrolled spillway with a width of 0 feet and has not been rated for its condition. While no emergency action plan is currently in place, the dam's risk management measures are not specified, suggesting a need for further evaluation and preparation in case of emergencies.
For water resource and climate enthusiasts, Riley Lake Dam serves as a focal point for outdoor recreation and a potential area of interest for studying the intersection of water management, infrastructure, and environmental risk. With its picturesque location and historical significance, the dam offers a unique opportunity to explore the complexities of dam operations and safety in a natural setting. Further research and monitoring of Riley Lake Dam could provide valuable insights into sustainable water resource management practices and resilience in the face of changing climatic conditions.
Year Completed |
1964 |
Dam Length |
350 |
River Or Stream |
LITTLE BEARHOUSE-TR |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Hydraulic Height |
9 |
Nid Storage |
95 |
Structural Height |
12 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Nid Height |
12 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Bayou Bartholomew Near Portland
|
363cfs |
Bayou Bartholomew Near Mcgehee
|
223cfs |
Bayou Bartholomew Near Jones
|
296cfs |
Chemin-A-Haut Byu Nr Beekman
|
27cfs |
Saline River Near Rye
|
433cfs |
Bayou Macon At Eudora
|
185cfs |
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.
Riley Lake Dam