Jap Beaver Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Jap Beaver, located in Jefferson County, Oklahoma, is a state-owned Earth dam primarily used for recreation purposes.


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Summary

Completed in 1953, this dam stands at a height of 38 feet, with a hydraulic height of 30 feet, and a structural height of 38 feet. The reservoir has a maximum storage capacity of 800 acre-feet and a normal storage of 662 acre-feet, covering a surface area of 65 acres. The dam on TR Beaver Creek is regulated by the Oklahoma Water Resources Board and is subject to state permitting, inspection, and enforcement.

Despite its low hazard potential, Jap Beaver is categorized as having a very high risk level, indicating potential vulnerabilities that require monitoring and management. The dam features a controlled spillway with a width of 2 feet and an outlet gate comprising a single valve. This recreational reservoir is a popular spot in the city of Waurika, attracting water resource and climate enthusiasts who appreciate the engineering behind the structure and its impact on the surrounding environment. With a rich history dating back to the 1950s, Jap Beaver remains a significant water resource in Oklahoma, offering opportunities for leisure and outdoor activities.

Year Completed

1953

Dam Length

100

Dam Height

38

River Or Stream

TR BEAVER CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

65

Hydraulic Height

30

Nid Storage

800

Structural Height

38

Outlet Gates

Valve - 1

Hazard Potential

Low

Foundations

Soil

Nid Height

38
       
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.