Lake Shepherd Springs Dam
Key Takeaway
Lake Shepherd Springs Dam is classified as high hazard in Arkansas. It was completed in 1954 and is 72 years old. Its primary use is water supply. 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 | 99 ft (taller than 97.8% in AR) |
| Dam Length | 2,100 ft |
| Dam Type | Earth |
| Max Storage | 19.2K acre-ft |
| Normal Storage | 12.3K acre-ft |
| Surface Area | 470 acres |
| Drainage Area | 63 sq mi |
| Max Discharge | 88,130 cfs |
| Year Completed | 1954 (72 years old) |
| NID ID | AR00445 |
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
CITY OF FORT SMITH
Local Government
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Low Hazard 63 ftFrequently Asked Questions
What is the hazard classification of Lake Shepherd Springs Dam?
Lake Shepherd Springs 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 Shepherd Springs Dam?
Lake Shepherd Springs Dam is owned by CITY OF FORT SMITH (Local Government). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.
When was Lake Shepherd Springs Dam built?
Lake Shepherd Springs 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 Lake Shepherd Springs Dam?
Lake Shepherd Springs Dam serves the following purposes: Water Supply. Many dams in the U.S. are multi-purpose, supporting flood control, water supply, recreation, and other uses.
How tall is Lake Shepherd Springs Dam?
Lake Shepherd Springs Dam has a dam height of 99 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 Shepherd Springs Dam last inspected?
Lake Shepherd Springs Dam was last inspected on May 21, 2008. Inspection dates indicate when a formal review occurred, not the results of that inspection.