Ward Lake Dam
Key Takeaway
Ward Lake Dam is classified as high hazard in Arkansas. It was completed in 1946 and is 80 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 | 80 ft (taller than 94.4% in AR) |
| Dam Length | 850 ft |
| Dam Type | Gravity |
| Normal Storage | 208 acre-ft |
| Surface Area | 39 acres |
| Drainage Area | 1 sq mi |
| Max Discharge | 4,908 cfs |
| Year Completed | 1946 (80 years old) |
| NID ID | AR00902 |
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 MENA, WATER & SEWER
Local Government
Nearby Dams
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High Hazard 35 ftBlue Lake Dam
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Low HazardBethesda Lake Dam
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High Hazard 33 ftPowell Lake Dam
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Low Hazard 24 ftLake Wilhelmina Dam
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High Hazard 75 ftPatchett Lake Dam
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Low Hazard 15 ftFrequently Asked Questions
What is the hazard classification of Ward Lake Dam?
Ward 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 Ward Lake Dam?
Ward Lake Dam is owned by CITY OF MENA, WATER & SEWER (Local Government). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.
When was Ward Lake Dam built?
Ward Lake Dam was completed in 1946, making it 80 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 Ward Lake Dam?
Ward Lake Dam serves the following purposes: Flood Risk Reduction. Many dams in the U.S. are multi-purpose, supporting flood control, water supply, recreation, and other uses.
How tall is Ward Lake Dam?
Ward Lake Dam has a dam height of 80 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 Ward Lake Dam last inspected?
Ward Lake Dam was last inspected on June 10, 2016. Inspection dates indicate when a formal review occurred, not the results of that inspection.