Lou Boling Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Lou Boling is a privately owned earth dam located in Bryan County, Oklahoma, specifically in the city of WADE.


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Summary

Built in 1967 by the USDA NRCS, this dam serves primarily for irrigation purposes along the TR-TUKLO CR river. Standing at 18 feet high with a storage capacity of 228 acre-feet, Lou Boling plays a vital role in water resource management in the region.

Managed by the Oklahoma Water Resources Board and regulated by the state, this dam has a low hazard potential but a very high risk assessment rating. With a controlled spillway and a single valve outlet gate, it has not been inspected since 2001, suggesting a need for updated assessment and maintenance. Despite its age, Lou Boling continues to support agricultural activities in the area with its stone core and soil foundation construction.

For water resource and climate enthusiasts, Lou Boling presents a fascinating case study in the maintenance and management of aging infrastructure. As a key irrigation structure in the region, its condition and functionality are crucial for sustainable water use. With its state-regulated status and historical significance, Lou Boling stands as a reminder of the ongoing challenges and importance of water resource management in Oklahoma.

Year Completed

1967

Dam Length

659

Dam Height

18

River Or Stream

TR-TUKLO CR

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Hydraulic Height

15

Nid Storage

228

Structural Height

18

Outlet Gates

Valve - 1

Hazard Potential

Low

Foundations

Soil

Nid Height

18
       
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.