Harris Brake Dam
Key Takeaway
Harris Brake Dam is classified as high hazard in Arkansas. It was completed in 1954 and is 72 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 | 25 ft (taller than 44.1% in AR) |
| Dam Length | 3,200 ft |
| Dam Type | Earth |
| Max Storage | 16.6K acre-ft |
| Normal Storage | 8.3K acre-ft |
| Surface Area | 1,240 acres |
| Drainage Area | 11 sq mi |
| Max Discharge | 15,400 cfs |
| Year Completed | 1954 (72 years old) |
| NID ID | AR00833 |
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
ARKANSAS GAME AND FISH COMMISSION
State Government
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High Hazard 24 ftFrequently Asked Questions
What is the hazard classification of Harris Brake Dam?
Harris Brake 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 Harris Brake Dam?
Harris Brake Dam is owned by ARKANSAS GAME AND FISH COMMISSION (State Government). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.
When was Harris Brake Dam built?
Harris Brake Dam was completed in 1954, making it 72 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 Harris Brake Dam?
Harris Brake 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 Harris Brake Dam?
Harris Brake Dam has a dam height of 25 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 Harris Brake Dam last inspected?
Harris Brake Dam was last inspected on June 9, 2016. Inspection dates indicate when a formal review occurred, not the results of that inspection.