Mitchell Lake Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 6, 2025

Mitchell Lake, located in Romia, Bryan County, Oklahoma, is a privately owned irrigation reservoir with a primary purpose of providing water for agricultural use.


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Summary

Built in 1971 by the USDA NRCS, this earth dam stands at a height of 40 feet and has a storage capacity of 110 acre-feet. The dam is regulated by the Oklahoma Water Resources Board and undergoes regular inspections to ensure its structural integrity and compliance with state regulations.

With a controlled spillway and a low hazard potential, Mitchell Lake is considered to have a very high risk of failure, according to risk assessments. Despite not having a current condition rating, the dam remains in operation for irrigation purposes and has a valve outlet gate for water release. Its location along TR-LONG CR in the Fort Worth District adds to its significance in the region, serving as a vital water resource for the surrounding area.

Overall, Mitchell Lake plays a crucial role in water management and agriculture in Bryan County, Oklahoma. Its construction and operation by the Natural Resources Conservation Service highlight the importance of sustainable water resource management in the face of changing climate patterns and increasing water demands. Enthusiasts of water resources and climate change will find Mitchell Lake to be a fascinating example of infrastructure designed to meet the irrigation needs of the local community while also safeguarding against potential risks.

Year Completed

1971

Dam Length

500

Dam Height

40

River Or Stream

TR-LONG CR

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Hydraulic Height

38

Nid Storage

110

Structural Height

40

Outlet Gates

Valve - 1

Hazard Potential

Low

Foundations

Soil

Nid Height

40
       
Seasonal Comparison

Weather Forecast

Dam Data Reference

Condition Assessment

Satisfactory
No existing or potential dam safety deficiencies are recognized. Acceptable performance is expected under all loading conditions (static, hydrologic, seismic) in accordance with the minimum applicable state or federal regulatory criteria or tolerable risk guidelines.
Fair
No existing dam safety deficiencies are recognized for normal operating conditions. Rare or extreme hydrologic and/or seismic events may result in a dam safety deficiency. Risk may be in the range to take further action. Note: Rare or extreme event is defined by the regulatory agency based on their minimum
Poor A dam safety deficiency is recognized for normal operating conditions which may realistically occur. Remedial action is necessary. POOR may also be used when uncertainties exist as to critical analysis parameters which identify a potential dam safety deficiency. Investigations and studies are necessary.
Unsatisfactory
A dam safety deficiency is recognized that requires immediate or emergency remedial action for problem resolution.
Not Rated
The dam has not been inspected, is not under state or federal jurisdiction, or has been inspected but, for whatever reason, has not been rated.
Not Available
Dams for which the condition assessment is restricted to approved government users.

Hazard Potential Classification

High
Dams assigned the high hazard potential classification are those where failure or mis-operation will probably cause loss of human life.
Significant
Dams assigned the significant hazard potential classification are those dams where failure or mis-operation results in no probable loss of human life but can cause economic loss, environment damage, disruption of lifeline facilities, or impact other concerns. Significant hazard potential classification dams are often located in predominantly rural or agricultural areas but could be in areas with population and significant infrastructure.
Low
Dams assigned the low hazard potential classification are those where failure or mis-operation results in no probable loss of human life and low economic and/or environmental losses. Losses are principally limited to the owner's property.
Undetermined
Dams for which a downstream hazard potential has not been designated or is not provided.
Not Available
Dams for which the downstream hazard potential is restricted to approved government users.