Norfork Dam
Key Takeaway
Norfork Dam is classified as high hazard in Arkansas. It was completed in 1944 and is 82 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 | 216 ft (taller than 99.4% in AR) |
| Dam Length | 2,624 ft |
| Dam Type | Concrete |
| Max Storage | 2.0M acre-ft |
| Normal Storage | 31.0K acre-ft |
| Surface Area | 22,000 acres |
| Drainage Area | 1,806 sq mi |
| Max Discharge | 331,000 cfs |
| Year Completed | 1944 (82 years old) |
| NID ID | AR00159 |
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
USACE - Little Rock District
Federal Government
Nearby Dams
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the hazard classification of Norfork Dam?
Norfork 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 Norfork Dam?
Norfork 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 Norfork Dam built?
Norfork Dam was completed in 1944, making it 82 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 Norfork Dam?
Norfork Dam serves the following purposes: Flood Risk Reduction, Fish And Wildlife Pond, Recreation, Hydroelectric, Water Supply. Many dams in the U.S. are multi-purpose, supporting flood control, water supply, recreation, and other uses.
How tall is Norfork Dam?
Norfork Dam has a dam height of 216 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 Norfork Dam last inspected?
Norfork Dam was last inspected on April 11, 2019. Inspection dates indicate when a formal review occurred, not the results of that inspection.