Chimney Rock Pump Storage Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 7, 2025

Chimney Rock Pump Storage, also known as Lake W.


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Summary

R. Holway, is a hydroelectric facility located in Salina, Oklahoma. Managed by the state, this pump storage plant was designed by the BENHAM-HOLWAY COMPANY and completed in 1968. With a dam height of 185 feet and a hydraulic height of 195 feet, Chimney Rock Pump Storage serves the primary purpose of hydroelectric power generation, utilizing an earth and rockfill dam structure with a storage capacity of 48,225 acre-feet.

Situated on Salina Creek and the Neosho River in Mayes County, Chimney Rock Pump Storage has a surface area of 742 acres and a drainage area of 1.9 square miles. This facility, regulated by the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission, operates at a high hazard potential level and is inspected annually. Although the condition assessment is not available, the emergency action plan was last revised in April 2021, ensuring that necessary risk management measures are in place for this critical infrastructure. As a noteworthy feature in Oklahoma's water resource and climate landscape, Chimney Rock Pump Storage showcases the state's commitment to sustainable energy production and water management.

Year Completed

1968

Dam Length

2300

Dam Height

185

River Or Stream

Salina Creek, Neosho River

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

742

Hydraulic Height

195

Drainage Area

1.9

Nid Storage

48225

Structural Height

190

Hazard Potential

High

Foundations

Rock

Nid Height

195
       
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.