Ricks Dam
Key Takeaway
Ricks Dam is classified as high hazard in Arkansas. It was completed in 1949 and is 77 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 | 87 ft (taller than 96% in AR) |
| Dam Length | 310 ft |
| Dam Type | Earth |
| Max Storage | 6.7K acre-ft |
| Normal Storage | 5.2K acre-ft |
| Surface Area | 359 acres |
| Drainage Area | 3 sq mi |
| Max Discharge | 8,000 cfs |
| Year Completed | 1949 (77 years old) |
| NID ID | AR00724 |
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
HOT SPRINGS MUNICIPAL WATER SYSTEM
Local Government
Nearby Dams
Bethel Dam
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Low Hazard 36 ftDillon Dam
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Significant Hazard 44 ftArnoname 136
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Significant HazardRicks Estate Dam
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High Hazard 16 ftSleepy Valley Lower Dam No 2
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Significant HazardSleepy Valley Upper Dam
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Significant HazardRockwood Dam
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High Hazard 45 ftBelvedere Golf Resort Lake Dam
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Low Hazard 40 ftFrequently Asked Questions
What is the hazard classification of Ricks Dam?
Ricks 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 Ricks Dam?
Ricks Dam is owned by HOT SPRINGS MUNICIPAL WATER SYSTEM (Local Government). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.
When was Ricks Dam built?
Ricks Dam was completed in 1949, making it 77 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 Ricks Dam?
Ricks 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 Ricks Dam?
Ricks Dam has a dam height of 87 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 Ricks Dam last inspected?
Ricks Dam was last inspected on July 13, 2017. Inspection dates indicate when a formal review occurred, not the results of that inspection.