Scs-Stillwater Creek Site-20 Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 6, 2025

SCS-Stillwater Creek Site-20 in Payne, Oklahoma, is a state-regulated earth dam built in 1965 by the USDA NRCS for flood risk reduction along the TR-West Brush Creek.


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Summary

The dam stands at 22 feet high and spans 1500 feet, with a storage capacity of 263 acre-feet. Managed by the Oklahoma Water Resources Board, this dam features a controlled spillway and a single valve outlet gate for water release. Despite being categorized as having a low hazard potential, the risk assessment for this dam is rated as very high, indicating the need for vigilant monitoring and management.

Located in the city of Mehan, SCS-Stillwater Creek Site-20 is under the jurisdiction of the OWRB and undergoes state permitting, inspection, and enforcement. With a primary purpose of flood risk reduction, this dam plays a crucial role in protecting the surrounding area from potential flooding events. Even though the dam's condition is currently not rated, it is imperative that regular inspections and maintenance be conducted to ensure its structural integrity and functionality. The risk management measures for this dam are not specified, highlighting the importance of developing and implementing strategies to address the identified high-risk factors.

In the realm of water resource and climate enthusiasts, SCS-Stillwater Creek Site-20 serves as a significant case study in dam infrastructure and risk assessment. With its unique design elements, such as a stone core and soil foundation, this dam presents both engineering challenges and opportunities for effective water management. As stakeholders consider the implications of the very high risk rating and the need for enhanced risk management measures, the SCS-Stillwater Creek Site-20 stands as a reminder of the vital role that dams play in safeguarding communities against the impacts of extreme weather events and climate change.

Year Completed

1965

Dam Length

1500

Dam Height

22

River Or Stream

TR-WEST BRUSH CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

9

Hydraulic Height

22

Nid Storage

263

Structural Height

22

Outlet Gates

Valve - 1

Hazard Potential

Low

Foundations

Soil

Nid Height

22
       
Seasonal Comparison

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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.