Summary
Built in 1940 by the USDA NRCS, this earth dam stands at 24 feet in height and spans 575 feet in length, with a primary purpose of providing recreation in the area. The dam is regulated by the Oklahoma Water Resources Board (OWRB) and is inspected regularly to ensure its safety and compliance with state regulations.
With a maximum storage capacity of 190 acre-feet and a normal storage level of 173 acre-feet, Nichols serves as a crucial water resource for the surrounding area. The dam's spillway, with a controlled design and width of 1 foot, can handle a maximum discharge of 1550 cubic feet per second. Despite being classified as having a low hazard potential, Nichols is rated as very high risk due to its condition assessment being marked as "Not Rated," indicating a need for further evaluation and potential risk management measures to be put in place.
As water resource and climate enthusiasts, keeping a close eye on dams like Nichols is essential for understanding their role in water management and the potential risks they pose. With proper oversight and maintenance, these structures can continue to provide valuable recreational opportunities while safeguarding communities from the impacts of flooding and other water-related hazards.
Year Completed |
1940 |
Dam Length |
575 |
Dam Height |
24 |
River Or Stream |
TR-PENNINGTON CR |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Hydraulic Height |
21 |
Nid Storage |
190 |
Structural Height |
24 |
Outlet Gates |
Valve - 1 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Soil |
Nid Height |
24 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Pennington Creek Near Reagan
|
7cfs |
Blue River Near Connerville
|
54cfs |
Washita River Near Dickson
|
317cfs |
Rock Creek At Sulphur
|
8cfs |
Clear Boggy Creek Near Caney
|
423cfs |
Blue River Near Blue
|
58cfs |
Dam Data Reference
Condition Assessment
SatisfactoryNo 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
HighDams 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.
Nichols