Lake Poinsett Dam
Key Takeaway
Lake Poinsett Dam is classified as high hazard in Arkansas. It was completed in 1967 and is 59 years old. Its primary use is flood risk reduction. 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 | 48 ft (taller than 81.3% in AR) |
| Dam Length | 2,725 ft |
| Dam Type | Earth |
| Max Storage | 29.5K acre-ft |
| Normal Storage | 16.3K acre-ft |
| Surface Area | 540 acres |
| Drainage Area | 4 sq mi |
| Max Discharge | 5,814 cfs |
| Year Completed | 1967 (59 years old) |
| NID ID | AR00477 |
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
Nearby Dams
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High Hazard 34 ftPoinsett Wid Site 15
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Significant Hazard 24 ftPoinsett Site 105
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Low Hazard 26 ftPoinsett Wid Site 102
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High Hazard 24 ftPoinsett Wid Site 2
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Significant Hazard 26 ftFrequently Asked Questions
What is the hazard classification of Lake Poinsett Dam?
Lake Poinsett 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 Poinsett Dam?
Lake Poinsett 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 Poinsett Dam built?
Lake Poinsett Dam was completed in 1967, making it 59 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 Poinsett Dam?
Lake Poinsett Dam serves the following purposes: Flood Risk Reduction, Recreation. Many dams in the U.S. are multi-purpose, supporting flood control, water supply, recreation, and other uses.
How tall is Lake Poinsett Dam?
Lake Poinsett Dam has a dam height of 48 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 Poinsett Dam last inspected?
Lake Poinsett Dam was last inspected on June 29, 2017. Inspection dates indicate when a formal review occurred, not the results of that inspection.