Bethesda Lake Dam
Key Takeaway
Bethesda Lake Dam is classified as high hazard in Arkansas. It was completed in 1922 and is 104 years old. Its primary use is recreation. High hazard means loss of life is likely if the dam fails — it does not indicate the dam's current condition. Learn more.
Physical Details
| Dam Height | 33 ft (taller than 65.9% in AR) |
| Dam Length | 250 ft |
| Dam Type | Earth |
| Max Storage | 54 acre-ft |
| Normal Storage | 41 acre-ft |
| Surface Area | 5 acres |
| Drainage Area | 0 sq mi |
| Max Discharge | 387 cfs |
| Year Completed | 1922 (104 years old) |
| NID ID | AR01181 |
Safety Information
Loss of human life is likely if the dam fails.
Hazard potential describes downstream consequences of failure, not the dam's current condition. What does this mean?
Ownership
JOHN WATKINS
Private
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High Hazard 75 ftFrequently Asked Questions
What is the hazard classification of Bethesda Lake Dam?
Bethesda Lake Dam is classified as High Hazard. Loss of human life is likely if the dam fails. This classification refers to the potential downstream consequences of a failure, not the dam's current structural condition.
Who owns and operates Bethesda Lake Dam?
Bethesda Lake Dam is owned by JOHN WATKINS (Private). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.
When was Bethesda Lake Dam built?
Bethesda Lake Dam was completed in 1922, making it 104 years old. Many U.S. dams were built between the 1930s and 1970s during a period of major infrastructure investment.
What is the primary purpose of Bethesda Lake Dam?
Bethesda Lake Dam serves the following purposes: Recreation. Many dams in the U.S. are multi-purpose, supporting flood control, water supply, recreation, and other uses.
How tall is Bethesda Lake Dam?
Bethesda Lake Dam has a dam height of 33 ft. Dam height is measured from the natural streambed at the downstream toe to the top of the dam, and may differ from the visible height.
When was Bethesda Lake Dam last inspected?
Bethesda Lake Dam was last inspected on May 6, 1992. Inspection dates indicate when a formal review occurred, not the results of that inspection.