Robert S. Kerr Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 7, 2025

Robert S.


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Summary

Kerr Lake, also known as Lake Hudson, is a state-owned reservoir in Oklahoma that serves multiple purposes, including flood risk reduction and hydroelectric power generation. Completed in 1964, this gravity dam stands at a height of 87 feet and has a storage capacity of 565,674 acre-feet. With a surface area of 11,000 acres and a maximum discharge of 736,000 cubic feet per second, it plays a vital role in managing water resources in the region.

Located in Mayes County, Oklahoma, near Pryor, Robert S. Kerr Lake is regulated by the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission and is subject to state jurisdiction, permitting, inspection, and enforcement. The dam features a controlled spillway with a width of 824 feet and is equipped with 17 Tainter (radial) gates for water release. The reservoir's high hazard potential and very high risk assessment underscore the importance of its maintenance and emergency preparedness measures to ensure the safety of surrounding communities and infrastructure.

Water resource and climate enthusiasts will appreciate the significant role that Robert S. Kerr Lake plays in managing water levels, controlling floods, and generating hydroelectric power in the region. As a state-owned facility with a strong regulatory framework and risk management measures in place, this reservoir serves as a critical water resource infrastructure that contributes to the sustainability and resilience of the local ecosystem and economy.

Year Completed

1964

Dam Length

3900

Dam Height

87

River Or Stream

Neosho

Primary Dam Type

Gravity

Surface Area

11000

Hydraulic Height

80

Drainage Area

11437

Nid Storage

565674

Structural Height

87

Outlet Gates

Tainter (radial) - 17

Hazard Potential

High

Foundations

Rock

Nid Height

87
       
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.