John Wells Lake Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

John Wells Lake in Haskell, Oklahoma is a local government-owned reservoir primarily used for water supply purposes.


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Summary

Built in 1936, this Earth dam stands 44 feet tall and stretches 1250 feet in length, with a maximum storage capacity of 1452 acre-feet. The lake covers 194 acres and is regulated by the Oklahoma Water Resources Board, with inspection and enforcement protocols in place to ensure its safety and functionality.

Located on TR-SANS BOIS CR and managed by the Tulsa District of the US Army Corps of Engineers, John Wells Lake has a controlled spillway and a low hazard potential. Although its condition assessment is listed as "Not Rated," the risk assessment for this dam is considered very high, highlighting the importance of proper risk management measures. With a maximum discharge capacity of 1240 cubic feet per second and one outlet valve, John Wells Lake plays a crucial role in water resource management for the surrounding area, making it a key asset for water supply and climate enthusiasts to monitor and appreciate.

Year Completed

1936

Dam Length

1250

Dam Height

44

River Or Stream

TR-SANS BOIS CR

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

194

Hydraulic Height

40

Nid Storage

1452

Structural Height

44

Outlet Gates

Valve - 1

Hazard Potential

Low

Foundations

Soil

Nid Height

44
       
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.