Okmulgee Lake Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 17, 2025

Okmulgee Lake, located in Okmulgee, Oklahoma, is a vital water resource managed by the local government for water supply purposes.


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Summary

Constructed in 1928 by USDA NRCS, the Earth dam stands at a height of 68 feet and spans a length of 2080 feet, with a storage capacity of 25,900 acre-feet. The lake is fed by Salt Creek and covers a surface area of 668 acres, serving as a critical source of water for the surrounding community.

Despite its historical significance, Okmulgee Lake poses a high hazard potential with a poor condition assessment, indicating a need for maintenance and potential risk management measures. The dam's controlled spillway and slide gate outlet provide important safety features, but its very high risk assessment level underscores the importance of regular inspections and upkeep. With a drainage area of 38.49 square miles and a maximum discharge of 73,500 cubic feet per second, the lake plays a crucial role in water management in the region.

In the event of an emergency, the community's preparedness and response plans are essential, highlighting the need for updated emergency action protocols and risk assessment strategies. As climate change continues to impact water resources, Okmulgee Lake's maintenance and regulation by the Oklahoma Water Resources Board remain vital for ensuring a sustainable and secure water supply for the future.

Year Completed

1928

Dam Length

2080

Dam Height

68

River Or Stream

SALT CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

668

Hydraulic Height

68

Drainage Area

38.49

Nid Storage

25900

Structural Height

68

Outlet Gates

Slide (sluice gate) - 1

Hazard Potential

High

Foundations

Rock, Soil

Nid Height

68
       
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.