Drought conditions across Arkansas have lowered water levels in many lakes, but they have expedited construction on the Craig D. Campbell Lake Conway Reservoir renovation. The five-year project, now in its third year, involves a complete overhaul of the lake’s water control systems, including a new dam and spillway, and has been described as the largest lake renovation project in the Arkansas Game and Fish Commission’s (AGFC) history.
Recent milestones include the completion of a bridge over an auxiliary spillway and the delivery of a footbridge to be installed near the site of the old dam. The renovation employs a labyrinth weir spillway—designed to handle significantly more water than the previous gate system—which is expected to stabilize water levels and improve the aquatic habitat. Nick Feltz, AGFC fisheries supervisor from the Mayflower Field Office, noted the system’s benefits over its predecessor.
"The lake is going to be run as a passive water-control system in the future," Feltz said. "It will also eliminate the need for annual winter drawdowns and enable native vegetation like coontail to thrive." Stable water levels during late winter and early spring are projected to enhance breeding conditions for fish such as bass, bluegill, and crappie.
Feltz highlighted that most lakebed construction tasks are complete, thanks in part to the dry weather. Projects such as clearing 28 miles of boat lanes, removing dilapidated structures, and preparing shorelines for updates have progressed steadily. Mulching boat lanes and driving utility poles to mark routes for future boaters are ongoing developments.
"Dry conditions have allowed us to surpass timelines," Feltz said. "Contractors are marking clear paths through the vegetation, ensuring safer navigation once the lake refills."
Feltz advised lakeside property owners to complete any remaining repairs or improvements while water levels remain low, as future weather changes may restrict access.
Renovation efforts have also prioritized fish habitat restoration. AGFC staff distributed over 2,000 concrete spawning disks to homeowners, along with creating gravel spawning beds and wooden structures to support aquatic life. Feltz noted that fish populations have significantly diminished due to low water levels, meaning newly stocked fish will face minimal competition for resources once the lake is fully refilled.
"The prolonged drought has essentially given the lake a clean slate to establish a thriving ecosystem," Feltz said.
The AGFC plans to complete the renovation on schedule. For additional updates, visit www.agfc.com/lakeconway.