James Fork Dam & Reservoir
Key Takeaway
James Fork Dam & Reservoir is classified as high hazard in Arkansas. It was completed in 1991 and is 35 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 | 81 ft (taller than 94.8% in AR) |
| Dam Length | 2,070 ft |
| Dam Type | Earth |
| Max Storage | 8.4K acre-ft |
| Normal Storage | 4.8K acre-ft |
| Surface Area | 212 acres |
| Drainage Area | 10 sq mi |
| Max Discharge | 2,260 cfs |
| Year Completed | 1991 (35 years old) |
| NID ID | AR01506 |
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
JAMES FORK REGIONAL WATER DISTRICT
Local Government
Nearby Dams
Johnny Cake Lake No 2 Dam
Sebastian, AR
Low HazardPoteau River Wid Site 09
Scott, AR
Low Hazard 46 ftJohnny Cake Lake No 1 Dam
Sebastian, AR
Significant Hazard 15 ftPark Lake Dam
Sebastian, AR
Low Hazard 32 ftLake Spur Dam
Sebastian, AR
Low Hazard 30 ftMansfield Dam
Scott, AR
High Hazard 19 ftPoteau River Wid Site 16
Scott, AR
Low Hazard 60 ftSugar Loaf Lake Dam
Sebastian, AR
High Hazard 60 ftFrequently Asked Questions
What is the hazard classification of James Fork Dam & Reservoir?
James Fork Dam & Reservoir 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 James Fork Dam & Reservoir?
James Fork Dam & Reservoir is owned by JAMES FORK REGIONAL WATER DISTRICT (Local Government). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.
When was James Fork Dam & Reservoir built?
James Fork Dam & Reservoir was completed in 1991, making it 35 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 James Fork Dam & Reservoir?
James Fork Dam & Reservoir serves the following purposes: Recreation, Water Supply. Many dams in the U.S. are multi-purpose, supporting flood control, water supply, recreation, and other uses.
How tall is James Fork Dam & Reservoir?
James Fork Dam & Reservoir has a dam height of 81 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 James Fork Dam & Reservoir last inspected?
James Fork Dam & Reservoir was last inspected on June 27, 2016. Inspection dates indicate when a formal review occurred, not the results of that inspection.