Narrows Dam

LITTLE MISSOURI RIVER· Pike, Arkansas· Built 1950· Gravity· 183 ft tall
High Hazard Flood Risk Reduction Recreation Hydroelectric Federal Government

Key Takeaway

Narrows Dam is classified as high hazard in Arkansas. It was completed in 1950 and is 76 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 183 ft (taller than 99.2% in AR)
Dam Length940 ft
Dam TypeGravity
Max Storage600.6K acre-ft
Normal Storage279.7K acre-ft
Surface Area7,200 acres
Drainage Area237 sq mi
Max Discharge42,300 cfs
Year Completed1950 (76 years old)
NID IDAR00154

Safety Information

High Hazard

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?

Emergency Action Plan: Yes
Last Inspection: July 9, 2020
State Regulated: No

Ownership

USACE - Vicksburg District

Federal Government

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Frequently Asked Questions

What is the hazard classification of Narrows Dam?

Narrows 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 Narrows Dam?

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

When was Narrows Dam built?

Narrows Dam was completed in 1950, making it 76 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 Narrows Dam?

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

How tall is Narrows Dam?

Narrows Dam has a dam height of 183 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 Narrows Dam last inspected?

Narrows Dam was last inspected on July 9, 2020. 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.