Scs-Upper Elk Creek Site-03a Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 19, 2025
SCS-Upper Elk Creek Site-03a, located in Sentinel, Oklahoma, is a state-regulated earth dam designed by USDA NRCS for flood risk reduction on a tributary of Elk Creek.
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Summary
Completed in 1948, this dam stands at a height of 25 feet and has a length of 1100 feet, providing a storage capacity of 279 acre-feet and a maximum discharge of 740 cubic feet per second. With a spillway type of "Controlled" and one valve outlet gate, this dam serves as a critical infrastructure for managing water resources in the region.
Despite its low hazard potential, the dam has not been rated for its condition assessment since its last inspection in 1980. The risk assessment for SCS-Upper Elk Creek Site-03a indicates a very high risk level (1), highlighting the importance of regular maintenance and monitoring to ensure the safety and functionality of this essential flood control structure. As water resource and climate enthusiasts, it is crucial to stay informed about the status of such key infrastructure to mitigate potential risks and protect the surrounding communities and ecosystems.
As climate change continues to impact water resources and increase the frequency and intensity of extreme weather events, the management and maintenance of dams like SCS-Upper Elk Creek Site-03a are becoming even more critical. With a designated emergency action plan and regular inspections, this dam plays a vital role in flood risk reduction and water management in Washita County, Oklahoma. By staying engaged and informed about the condition and safety of such structures, water resource and climate enthusiasts can contribute to the resilience of communities and ecosystems in the face of a changing climate.
Year Completed |
1948 |
Dam Length |
1100 |
Dam Height |
25 |
River Or Stream |
TRIBUTARY OF ELK CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
10 |
Hydraulic Height |
25 |
Drainage Area |
1.16 |
Nid Storage |
279 |
Structural Height |
25 |
Outlet Gates |
Valve - 1 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Soil |
Nid Height |
25 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Dam Data Reference
Condition Assessment
SatisfactoryNo 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
HighDams 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.
Scs-Upper Elk Creek Site-03a