Helen Smith Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 7, 2025
Helen Smith is a privately owned dam located in Roger Mills, Oklahoma, along the TR-Washita River.
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Summary
Constructed in 1986, this earth dam stands at a height of 30 feet and has a storage capacity of 68 acre-feet. With a low hazard potential and a very high risk assessment rating, this structure plays a crucial role in managing water resources in the region.
Managed by the OWRB and regulated by the state of Oklahoma, Helen Smith is equipped with a controlled spillway and a single valve outlet gate. Despite being not rated for its condition assessment, this dam undergoes inspections every five years to ensure its safety and functionality. The dam serves a primary purpose of "Other" and is designed to withstand the hydraulic pressures of the Washita River.
Located in a rural area near HAMMON, Helen Smith plays a vital role in flood control and water storage for the surrounding communities. With its stone core and soil foundation, this dam exemplifies the importance of infrastructure in managing water resources and adapting to the changing climate conditions in Oklahoma.
Year Completed |
1986 |
Dam Length |
187 |
Dam Height |
30 |
River Or Stream |
TR-WASHITA RIVER |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Hydraulic Height |
30 |
Drainage Area |
0.6 |
Nid Storage |
68 |
Structural Height |
30 |
Outlet Gates |
Valve - 1 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Soil |
Nid Height |
30 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
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.
Helen Smith