Lawtonka Lake Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 6, 2025

Lawtonka Lake, located in Medicine Park, Oklahoma, is a key reservoir managed by the US Army Corps of Engineers Little Rock District.


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Summary

Constructed in 1939, this gravity dam stands at an impressive height of 90 feet and spans 612 feet in length. The lake serves as a crucial water supply for the region, with a normal storage capacity of 54,698 acre-feet and a maximum storage of 88,665 acre-feet.

With a surface area of 2,286 acres and a drainage area of 92 square miles, Lawtonka Lake plays a vital role in regulating water flow and providing flood control for the surrounding areas. Despite its age, the dam is in fair condition according to the latest assessment in March 2021, with a high hazard potential due to its location on Medicine Creek. The dam features 8 vertical lift outlet gates and a controlled spillway with a width of 160 feet, ensuring proper water management and safety measures are in place.

Overall, Lawtonka Lake stands as a testament to the importance of sustainable water resource management in the face of changing climate patterns. As enthusiasts and advocates for water resources and climate resilience, it is crucial to monitor and support the ongoing maintenance and regulation of critical infrastructure like Lawtonka Lake to ensure the safety and well-being of the local community and ecosystem.

Year Completed

1939

Dam Length

612

Dam Height

90

River Or Stream

MEDICINE CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Gravity

Surface Area

2286

Hydraulic Height

90

Drainage Area

92

Nid Storage

88665

Structural Height

90

Outlet Gates

Vertical Lift - 8

Hazard Potential

High

Foundations

Rock

Nid Height

90
       
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.