Altus Reservoir Report
Nearby: Altus Lugert Dike Altus South Dike
Last Updated: December 5, 2025
Altus, also known as Lake Altus, is a federal-owned water resource located in Kiowa County, Oklahoma.
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Summary
Managed by the Bureau of Reclamation, this concrete gravity dam was completed in 1945 and serves the primary purpose of flood risk reduction along the North Fork Red River. With a structural height of 110 feet and a storage capacity of 162,526 acre-feet, Altus covers a surface area of 7,170 acres and has a maximum discharge of 57,100 cubic feet per second.
The dam's high hazard potential and very high risk assessment underscore the importance of its management and maintenance. While not currently regulated or inspected by state agencies, Altus undergoes regular inspections by the Bureau of Reclamation. The dam is equipped with a controlled spillway and a single valve outlet gate for water release. In case of emergencies, an Emergency Action Plan is in place, ensuring preparedness for potential risks and disasters.
Altus plays a crucial role in water resource management and flood control in the region, providing essential protection to downstream communities. Its strategic location in the Tulsa District and its significant storage capacity make it a vital asset for water supply and risk mitigation efforts. As climate change continues to impact water resources, the careful monitoring and maintenance of dams like Altus are essential to ensure their continued effectiveness and safety for years to come.
Years Modified |
1984 - Hydraulic, 1984 - Other |
Year Completed |
1945 |
Dam Length |
1104 |
Dam Height |
110 |
River Or Stream |
NORTH FORK RED RIVER |
Primary Dam Type |
Concrete |
Surface Area |
7170 |
Hydraulic Height |
62 |
Drainage Area |
2515 |
Nid Storage |
162526 |
Structural Height |
110 |
Outlet Gates |
Valve - 1 |
Hazard Potential |
High |
Nid Height |
110 |
Seasonal Comparison
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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.
Altus
Lake Altus At Lugert