Nichols Lake Dam
Key Takeaway
Nichols Lake Dam is classified as high hazard in Arkansas. It was completed in 1928 and is 98 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 | 20 ft (taller than 23.5% in AR) |
| Dam Length | 3,000 ft |
| Dam Type | Gravity |
| Max Storage | 605 acre-ft |
| Normal Storage | 250 acre-ft |
| Surface Area | 51 acres |
| Drainage Area | 9 sq mi |
| Max Discharge | 2,709 cfs |
| Year Completed | 1928 (98 years old) |
| NID ID | AR00918 |
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 NASHVILLE
Local Government
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Low Hazard 22 ftFrequently Asked Questions
What is the hazard classification of Nichols Lake Dam?
Nichols Lake 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 Nichols Lake Dam?
Nichols Lake Dam is owned by CITY OF NASHVILLE (Local Government). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.
When was Nichols Lake Dam built?
Nichols Lake Dam was completed in 1928, making it 98 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 Nichols Lake Dam?
Nichols Lake 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 Nichols Lake Dam?
Nichols Lake Dam has a dam height of 20 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 Nichols Lake Dam last inspected?
Nichols Lake Dam was last inspected on September 29, 2016. Inspection dates indicate when a formal review occurred, not the results of that inspection.