Lake Elmdale Dam
Key Takeaway
Lake Elmdale Dam is classified as high hazard in Arkansas. It was completed in 1952 and is 74 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 | 46 ft (taller than 79.8% in AR) |
| Dam Length | 1,500 ft |
| Dam Type | Earth |
| Max Storage | 2.1K acre-ft |
| Normal Storage | 484 acre-ft |
| Surface Area | 125 acres |
| Drainage Area | 8 sq mi |
| Max Discharge | 4,758 cfs |
| Year Completed | 1952 (74 years old) |
| NID ID | AR00290 |
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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Low Hazard 40 ftBroccardo Lake Dam
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Significant HazardFrequently Asked Questions
What is the hazard classification of Lake Elmdale Dam?
Lake Elmdale 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 Lake Elmdale Dam?
Lake Elmdale 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 Lake Elmdale Dam built?
Lake Elmdale Dam was completed in 1952, making it 74 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 Lake Elmdale Dam?
Lake Elmdale 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 Lake Elmdale Dam?
Lake Elmdale Dam has a dam height of 46 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 Lake Elmdale Dam last inspected?
Lake Elmdale Dam was last inspected on April 4, 2017. Inspection dates indicate when a formal review occurred, not the results of that inspection.