Murray Lock and Dam

ARKANSAS· Pulaski, Arkansas· Built 1969· Concrete· 23 ft tall
Significant Hazard Navigation Recreation Hydroelectric Federal Government

Key Takeaway

Murray Lock and Dam is classified as significant hazard in Arkansas. It was completed in 1969 and is 57 years old. Its primary use is navigation. Significant hazard means failure could cause economic or environmental damage. Learn more.

Physical Details

Dam Height 23 ft (taller than 37.6% in AR)
Dam Length3,740 ft
Dam TypeConcrete
Max Storage108.5K acre-ft
Normal Storage87.1K acre-ft
Surface Area9,700 acres
Drainage Area158,030 sq mi
Max Discharge416,000 cfs
Year Completed1969 (57 years old)
NID IDAR00171

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: June 27, 2018
State Regulated: No

Ownership

USACE - Little Rock District

Federal Government

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Frequently Asked Questions

What is the hazard classification of Murray Lock and Dam?

Murray Lock and 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 Murray Lock and Dam?

Murray Lock and Dam is owned by USACE - Little Rock District (Federal Government). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.

When was Murray Lock and Dam built?

Murray Lock and Dam was completed in 1969, making it 57 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 Murray Lock and Dam?

Murray Lock and Dam serves the following purposes: Navigation, Recreation, Hydroelectric. Many dams in the U.S. are multi-purpose, supporting flood control, water supply, recreation, and other uses.

How tall is Murray Lock and Dam?

Murray Lock and Dam has a dam height of 23 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 Murray Lock and Dam last inspected?

Murray Lock and Dam was last inspected on June 27, 2018. 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.