Scs-Whitegrass-Waterhole Creek Site-2 Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

SCS-Whitegrass-Waterhole Creek Site-2 is a state-owned dam located in McCurtain, Oklahoma, designed by the USDA NRCS with a primary purpose of flood risk reduction.


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Summary

Completed in 1961, this Earth-type dam stands at a height of 31 feet and has a length of 948 feet, with a storage capacity of 395 acre-feet. The dam is situated on a tributary of Whitegrass Creek and is regulated by the Oklahoma Water Resources Board, with state permitting, inspection, and enforcement in place.

With a hazard potential classified as high and a condition assessment rated as fair, this dam poses a significant risk, especially given its location in a region susceptible to extreme weather events and climate variability. The risk assessment indicates a very high level of risk, requiring careful monitoring and potential risk management measures to mitigate any potential hazards. The dam features a controlled spillway and a single valve outlet gate, with a maximum discharge capacity of 1157 cubic feet per second, highlighting its importance for flood control in the area.

As water resource and climate enthusiasts, the SCS-Whitegrass-Waterhole Creek Site-2 presents an intriguing case study in dam infrastructure management and the intersection of water resource protection and climate resilience. The dam's location, design, and regulatory oversight provide valuable insights into the challenges and opportunities in ensuring the safety and functionality of critical water infrastructure in the face of changing climate patterns and increasing hydrological risks. This site serves as a reminder of the ongoing need for proactive monitoring, maintenance, and risk assessment to safeguard our water resources and communities from the impacts of extreme weather events and climate change.

Year Completed

1961

Dam Length

948

Dam Height

31

River Or Stream

TRIBUTARY OF WHITEGRASS CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

11

Hydraulic Height

31

Drainage Area

1

Nid Storage

395

Structural Height

31

Outlet Gates

Valve - 1

Hazard Potential

High

Foundations

Soil

Nid Height

31
       
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.