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44-671: The DeGray Dam project, encompassing flood-control, power, and water-supply features is located in northern Clark County, Arkansas on the Caddo River approximately eight miles above its confluence with the Ouachita River . The project plan for DeGray Lake included the construction of the DeGray Dam with a height of 240 feet above the Caddo River , a dike that splits the Caddo River and Bayou de Roche, an outlet works, an uncontrolled spillway, and

88-649: A 400-acre impoundment directly below the main lake that serves as a storage basin for pump back capable features. During designated times, i.e. drought, the 28,000 KW generator can be reversed pulling water out of the Lower Lake into the main lake to be utilized again for hydropower generation. The 400-acre Lower Lake also serves as an ideal waterfowl refuge. DeGray Lake supports a variety of game and non-game wildlife. Squirrels and rabbits predominate as upland game. Deer, beaver, turkey, raccoon, armadillo, quail, and doves are found in moderate numbers. Very few waterfowl nest along

132-481: A female householder with no husband present, and 34.70% were non-families. 27.60% of all households were made up of individuals, and 12.40% had someone living alone who was 65 years of age or older. The average household size was 2.38 and the average family size was 2.91. In the county, the population was spread out, with 21.70% under the age of 18, 20.00% from 18 to 24, 23.80% from 25 to 44, 19.90% from 45 to 64, and 14.60% who were 65 years of age or older. The median age

176-548: A fun experience for hunters of all levels. All applicable hunting laws are in effect while hunting on DeGray. Arkansas Game and Fish Commission issues licenses and tags for applicable game. Some game DeGray offers to hunt include quail, duck, geese, rabbit, squirrel, bear, turkey, and deer being the most popular. The USACE rangers offer several hunting events during the year for various type of game. Corps of Engineers have Youth Permit Hunt Applications or Mobility-Impaired Waterfowl Hunt Permit Applications at their project office. Hunting

220-421: A nine-point margin. Four years later, Trump defeated Joe Biden by a margin of over 14 points, the largest margin for a Republican since Richard Nixon defeated George McGovern by over 20 points in 1972. Mike Ross was the last Democrat to win the county in a gubernatorial election, in 2014. Conner Eldridge was the last Democrat to win the county in a US Senate election, in 2016. As of 2023, Clark County

264-723: A powerhouse. The documented history of the DeGray area dates back to AD 700 when the area was inhabited by the Caddo Indians. Caddo is believed to be a shortened version of the Indian word "kadohadacho", which was used to identify the large family of tribes living in southwest Arkansas, northwest Louisiana, and northeast Texas. Historians believe there were at least 12 tribes in this confederation that usually settled along streambanks. Hernando de Soto then came and explored this area in 1541, after discovering hot springs . The Caddo Indians' way of life

308-597: A quiet place to relax and enjoy Mother Nature. USACE also offers a conference hall for rent which is available to rent on a daily basis. DeGray State Park also shares shoreline on the USACE operated lake. The state park offers many recreational opportunities as well. It offers interpretive tours at sunset, guided hikes, and many more interpretive activities. DeGray Lake WMA boasts some of the best hunting on public land in SW Arkansas. Due to DeGray's diverse fauna population it offers

352-413: A result, smallmouth and rock bass, warmouth, red-ear sunfish, and channel catfish are caught on the lower Caddo River. DeGray lake boasts an impressive selection of recreation opportunities. The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers owns and operates nine campgrounds, two playgrounds, five swim areas, several miles of biking trails, five miles of hiking trails, as well as eleven boat ramps. Island camping at DeGray

396-714: A result. In an attempt to rejuvenate the lake, AGFC partnered in 2019 with the University of Arkansas at Pine Bluff Aquaculture and Fisheries to restore the native vegetation. DeGray Lake's impact is important for the local economy of SW Arkansas. Including all entities on DeGray Lake; USACE, DeGray State Park, Iron Mountain Marina, and other private leases DeGray Lake generated as of fiscal year 2016 $ 23,502,958 in visitor spending within 30 miles of Corps property, $ 13,089,995 in sales within 30 miles of corps property, and 220 jobs. The money spent by visitors to Corps lakes on trip expenses adds to

440-403: A shoreline of 207 mi (333 km). Many of the long-time residents recall families in the area who were "bought out" in order to fill area behind the dam. Residents were offered money for their property, so that the lake could be built. The eventual damming of the Caddo River forced many people to move elsewhere in the area. Brick and concrete structures from former homesteads still stand on

484-490: A substantial annual sport fishery. In addition to natural fisheries recruitment from original Caddo River populations, the Arkansas Game and Fish Commission initiated a supplemental fish stocking program in 1969. Black bass, Channel catfish, Flathead catfish, Blue Catfish, Red-ear, bluegill, crappie, and white bass were stocked followed by stockings of shad for forage supplement. To provide sport fishing variety and to supplement

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528-455: A white man and held in the county jail. Daniels and two of his sons were forcibly taken out of the jail by a white mob and lynched by hanging from trees in the courthouse square, without trial. One son, believed to be Charles Daniels (22), survived for trial. He was convicted and served in prison until about 1886 or 1887. From 1920 to 1960, the county population declined, as may be seen on the table below. The cotton culture had been affected by

572-415: Is prohibited but is allowed at Lake Ouchita. DeGray Lake offers a variety of day use facilities and locations throughout the project. Pavilions are located at Hwy 7, Lower Lake, Caddo Drive, and Arlie Moore. Each pavilion is unique and has beautiful views of the lake. The pavilions are a great place to have reunions, birthday parties, or any kind of special event. Nestled in a woodland canopy, these areas offer

616-470: Is prohibited in all recreation areas and only allowed in designated areas of the WMA. DeGray Lake is nationally known for its clean, clear water and pristine shoreline. It is also known for its trophy winning hybrid stripers, crappie, largemouth bass, and catfish. Each year, thousands of people come to fish the waters of DeGray Lake. The Caddo River feeds the lake, making it a great habit for fish. The introduction of

660-781: Is split between districts 89 and 90 in the Arkansas House of Representatives and fully contained within District 3 in the Arkansas Senate . All three seats are held by Republicans Justin Gonzales, Richard Womack, and Steve Crowell, respectively. Republicans hold every county-wide office except the Sheriff and Collector, and have a seven-to-four super-majority on the Quorum Court. Most positions regularly go unopposed with only one candidate making

704-421: Is unique to the area, and this habitat will be preserved. Cleared lands will be maintained as existing habitat for deer, quail, dove, and rabbits. Large tracts of land, not suited for recreational development, will be set aside to preserve wildlife habitats, both for hunting purposes and the encouragement of non-game species. DeGray Lake, with 13,420 surfaces acres at full power pool has the potential for providing

748-455: Is water. As of the 2020 United States census , there were 21,446 people, 8,446 households, and 5,253 families residing in the county. As of the 2000 census , there were 23,546 people, 8,912 households, and 5,819 families residing in the county. The population density was 27 people per square mile (10 people/km ). There were 10,166 housing units at an average density of 12 units per square mile (4.6 units/km ). The racial makeup of

792-451: The Arkansas territorial legislature created Pike County from western Clark County and part of northern Hempstead County . It was named after US explorer Zebulon Pike . Arkadelphia was designated as the county seat in 1842. It became increasingly important as a hub after railroads were constructed to here that connected with numerous markets. Timber harvesting became important by the end of

836-482: The United States census does list Arkansas population based on townships (sometimes referred to as "county subdivisions" or "minor civil divisions"). Townships are also of value for historical purposes in terms of genealogical research. Each town or city is within one or more townships in an Arkansas county based on census maps and publications. The townships of Clark County are listed below; listed in parentheses are

880-492: The poverty line , including 20.90% of those under age 18 and 18.40% of those age 65 or over. An alcohol prohibition ( dry ) county since 1943, Clark County voted in 2011 to make the county wet, allowing countywide retail alcohol sales. John Kerry was the last Democrat to win the county in a presidential election, in 2004. John McCain and Mitt Romney defeated Barack Obama by single-digit margins here, and Donald Trump beat former Arkansas First Lady Hillary Clinton by

924-548: The Caddo River, but the lake will provide a resting stop for migratory birds. A variety of songbirds with other birds, such as hawks, owl, herons, and vultures, are either permanent residents or migrate through the DeGray area. Bald eagles have been sighted on the lake during the winter months. The lake has inundated habitats that once supported deer, squirrel, beaver, and wild turkey. Management of peripheral lands have determined whether these remaining habitats are destroyed either through structural or human invasion. The hardwood forest

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968-582: The West Coast, where the defense industry developed during and after World War II offered higher paying jobs. At the same time, the lumber industry declined, also causing a loss of jobs. Several companies had operated sawmills and related businesses in Clark County in the early part of the century. The founders of the lumber town Graysonia, Arkansas moved to Springfield, Oregon , renaming their company as Roseboro Lumber. While manufacturing industries had entered

1012-530: The area with their extensive trapping methods. DeGray Lake was in fact named after a French fur trader, DeGraff, who settled this region. Several artifacts have been found near the dam site, and many have been brought to a local university, Henderson State University . DeGray lake and dam were authorized by Congress in the River and Harbor Act of 1950. Congress passed the Water Supply Act of 1958, which provided for

1056-508: The bottom of the lake, whereas the remains of others can be found in selected areas near the shoreline. Although recreation plays a major role in every day activity, hydropower makes this lake one of the most efficient and energy producing projects in the South. DeGray Lake holds the distinction as the first "pump back capable" impoundment in the history of the Corps of Engineers. A re-regulation dam forms

1100-512: The century. By 1890, forest products were ranked next to agriculture in economic importance. In the 20th century, continued modern technological developments established the industry's continued importance in the county's economy. Three of the six lynchings recorded in Clark County from 1877 to 1950 took place in a mass event in late January 1879. An African-American man, Ben Daniels, and three of his four sons (ranging in age from 22 to 18) were arrested as suspects in an alleged robbery and assault of

1144-419: The county was 74.28% White , 22.02% Black or African American , 0.46% Native American , 0.62% Asian , 0.04% Pacific Islander , 1.37% from other races , and 1.20% from two or more races. 2.40% of the population were Hispanic or Latino of any race. There were 8,912 households, out of which 29.80% had children under the age of 18 living with them, 49.80% were married couples living together, 12.20% had

1188-438: The county, several had a downturn in the 1980s. In the 1970s, the DeGray Dam and Lake were completed along the Caddo River, providing new areas in the county for tourism and recreation, which have become major components of the economy. According to the U.S. Census Bureau , the county has a total area of 883 square miles (2,290 km ), of which 866 square miles (2,240 km ) is land and 17 square miles (44 km ) (1.9%)

1232-483: The crappie season can be heard as the sound of boats flocking to the lake come from near and far. With numerous coves and fishing shelters along the bottom of the lake, catching fish usually isn't too difficult a task. Each year, the lake hosts hundreds of fishing tournaments – local and national. Also Park Rangers and staff have fishing derbies for local children's groups and physically challenged children and adults. Fishing guide services and bait shops are also located near

1276-514: The general election ballot. Democrats picked up one seat in 2022 by flipping District 2. Note: Unlike most Arkansas counties, Clark County has only one township. That township encompasses the entire county. Townships in Arkansas are the divisions of a county. Each township includes unincorporated areas; some may have incorporated cities or towns within part of their boundaries. Arkansas townships have limited purposes in modern times. However,

1320-527: The inclusion of municipal and industrial water supply as one of the project purposes. Construction on the dam began in 1962 and was completed in 1972 at a cost of $ 63,800,000. A 40 MW hydraulic turbine and a 28 MW turbine generate electricity for the Southwestern Power Administration of Arkansas , Texas , and Oklahoma . DeGray dam impounds the waters of the Caddo River to form a flood control lake that covers 13,400 acres (5,400 ha), and

1364-555: The invasion of the boll weevil , which attacked the plants; and mechanization of agriculture, reducing the need for workers. In this period, many African-American families, who still constituted most of the farm workers, also left Arkansas and other parts of the rural South to escape Jim Crow oppression and seek better employment in Northern and Midwestern cities in the Great Migration . In the latter part of this period, some migrated to

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1408-632: The lake as well are two marinas located at DeGray State Park and Iron Mountain. In 2007, AGFC and USACE introduced the Pakistani fly to control hydrilla in DeGray Lake. The "Pak" fly larvae were supposed to eat the tops off hydrilla plants down to a depth where it would decrease total plant coverage. The architects of this scheme did not foresee several years of drought, which combined with the Pak fly, wiped out DeGray's hydrilla. Largemouth bass recruitment suffered as

1452-581: The local and national economy by supporting jobs and generating income. Visitor spending represents a sizable component of the economy in many communities around DeGray. The benefits offered from DeGray Lake are more than just economic. By providing the public opportunities for active recreation, DeGray lake helps combat one of the most significant of the nation's health problems: lack of physical activity. Recreational programs and activities at DeGray also help strengthen family ties and friendships, provide opportunities for children to develop personal skills, giving

1496-513: The mid-Atlantic East Coast) along the lower Ouachita to below present-day Camden. (This site had been named as Écore à Fabre , after a colonial French trader Fabre.) Clark County was the third county formed by Americans in Arkansas, on December 15, 1818, together with Hempstead and Pulaski counties. The county is named after William Clark , then Governor of the Missouri Territory , which included present-day Arkansas. On November 1, 1833,

1540-525: The northern pike reported caught may have actually been muskellunge. Sampling efforts have not indicated that any of the exotic species are reproducing in the lake. Maintenance of the remaining downstream warm-water ecosystem is possible as a result of the multilevel intake structure in the dam. This structure can selectively withdraw water from a vertical range of nearly 60 feet, thereby allowing withdrawals to occur from strata of desired temperature. The 90-acre reregulating pool below most hydroelectric systems. As

1584-488: The population was 21,446. The county seat is Arkadelphia . The Arkadelphia, AR Micropolitan Statistical Area includes all of Clark County. Ancient Indigenous peoples occupied areas along the waterways for thousands of years prior to European exploration. Among the various cultures was the Caddoan Mississippian culture , which developed by 1000 AD and occupied certain sites in Arkansas at different times. This

1628-421: The predator population, exotic species (walleye, northern pike and muskellunge) were also stocked. Fish populations in DeGray Lake are still in the growth period and have not yet reached full potential. However, good bass, bream, and crappie fishing has been realized. Some catches of northern pike have been reported but the fate of the walleye and muskellunge stockings is unknown. Because of their similarity, some of

1672-410: The public the knowledge to become stewards for nature, and increase water safety. Recreation experiences increase motivation to learn more about the environment; understand and awareness of environmental issues; and sensitivity to the environment. Clark County, Arkansas Clark County is a county located in the south-central part of the U.S. state of Arkansas . As of the 2020 census ,

1716-690: The time of European-American settlement after the United States acquired this territory in the Louisiana Purchase of 1803, the pioneers encountered three major Native American tribes: the Caddo , who lived along the banks of the Caddo River ; the Quapaw on the Ouachita River , for several miles below what is now Arkadelphia; and the Lenape (known then as Delaware, who were driven to this area by European pressure from

1760-460: The woods (berries, nuts, etc.,) and by hunting and fishing. The University of Arkansas has made a survey of known archaeological sites within the reservoir area. Fourteen sites were discovered and investigated. An extensive dig was made at the Powell site, a Temple Mound in Clark County. Many artifacts and significant archaeological data were located. In the 18th century French fur trappers brought trade to

1804-415: Was 32 years. For every 100 females there were 92.70 males. For every 100 females age 18 and over, there were 88.90 males. The median income for a household in the county was $ 28,845, and the median income for a family was $ 37,092. Males had a median income of $ 28,692 versus $ 19,886 for females. The per capita income for the county was $ 14,533. About 13.50% of families and 19.10% of the population were below

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1848-671: Was changed forever when coming in contact with the Spanish explorers; the Indians were introduced to the horse. The Caddo excelled in pottery making and many fine examples of their work are in private collections in the area. The Caddo had formal religious, social, and economic beliefs and believed in an afterlife. Each subtribes had its own chief and village consisting of straw lodges. Their society valued honesty, hospitality, and neighborliness. The Caddo were farmers growing corn, squash, pumpkins and beans and they supplemented their diet by gathering food in

1892-551: Was the westernmost expression of the Mississippian culture , which developed a vast network and numerous centers of development throughout the Mississippi Valley and its tributaries. The Caddoans constructed substantial earthwork mounds in the areas of Arkansas and Texas; the largest in Arkansas is Battle Mound Site , built from 1200 to 1400 AD in what is present-day Lafayette County. Archeological evidence has established there

1936-496: Was unbroken continuity from the Caddoan Mississippian people to the historic Caddo people and related Caddo-language speakers who encountered the first Europeans. Their descendants formed the modern Caddo Nation of Oklahoma. Settlers in the 19th century found earthwork mounds , 10 to 15 feet in height, in areas around what developed as Arkadelphia, Arkansas . Some were excavated for pottery and other grave goods. At

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