Lake Erling Dam

BODCAU· Lafayette, Arkansas· Built 1956· Rockfill· 43 ft tall
Significant Hazard Recreation Water Supply Private

Key Takeaway

Lake Erling Dam is classified as significant hazard in Arkansas. It was completed in 1956 and is 70 years old. Its primary use is recreation. Significant hazard means failure could cause economic or environmental damage. Learn more.

Physical Details

Dam Height 43 ft (taller than 77.5% in AR)
Dam Length4,390 ft
Dam TypeRockfill
Max Storage138.3K acre-ft
Normal Storage76.8K acre-ft
Surface Area2,350 acres
Drainage Area408 sq mi
Max Discharge8,000 cfs
Year Completed1956 (70 years old)
NID IDAR00872

Safety Information

Significant Hazard

No probable loss of human life, but can cause economic loss, environmental damage, or disruption of lifeline facilities.

Hazard potential describes downstream consequences of failure, not the dam's current condition. What does this mean?

Emergency Action Plan: Yes
Last Inspection: October 2, 2015
State Regulated: Yes
Regulatory Agency: ANRC

Ownership

THE AGRED FOUNDATION

Private

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Frequently Asked Questions

What is the hazard classification of Lake Erling Dam?

Lake Erling Dam is classified as Significant Hazard. No probable loss of human life, but can cause economic loss, environmental damage, or disruption of lifeline facilities. This classification refers to the potential downstream consequences of a failure, not the dam's current structural condition.

Who owns and operates Lake Erling Dam?

Lake Erling Dam is owned by THE AGRED FOUNDATION (Private). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.

When was Lake Erling Dam built?

Lake Erling Dam was completed in 1956, making it 70 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 Erling Dam?

Lake Erling Dam 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 Lake Erling Dam?

Lake Erling Dam has a dam height of 43 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 Erling Dam last inspected?

Lake Erling Dam was last inspected on October 2, 2015. Inspection dates indicate when a formal review occurred, not the results of that inspection.

Data from the National Inventory of Dams (NID) maintained by the US Army Corps of Engineers. Dam conditions may have changed since the last update. This site is not affiliated with USACE. Do not use for emergency planning — contact your local dam safety program.