Smoke Rise Ranch Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 6, 2025

Smoke Rise Ranch in Nowata, Oklahoma is a privately-owned dam that stands as a crucial water resource within the state.


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Summary

Built in 1941, this earth-type dam with a structural height of 20 feet serves the primary purpose of providing water storage for the surrounding area. With a normal storage capacity of 60 acre-feet and a maximum storage of 140 acre-feet, this dam on the TR-South Fork Talala Creek plays a significant role in water management in the region.

Despite its low hazard potential, Smoke Rise Ranch poses a very high risk due to its condition assessment not being rated. This dam, which has a controlled spillway type with a width of 1 foot and one valve as the outlet gate, has not been inspected since December 2010. The risk management measures for Smoke Rise Ranch are currently not specified, highlighting the need for regular inspections and maintenance to ensure its continued safety and functionality.

Located in the Tulsa District, Smoke Rise Ranch is a vital structure that demands attention and proactive risk management strategies. With its rich history dating back to the early 1940s, this dam stands as a testament to the importance of water resource management in the face of changing climate conditions. As water resource and climate enthusiasts, it is imperative to monitor and address the potential risks associated with dams like Smoke Rise Ranch to safeguard these critical water sources for future generations.

Year Completed

1941

Dam Length

820

Dam Height

20

River Or Stream

TR-SOUTH FORK TALALA CR

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

16

Hydraulic Height

18

Nid Storage

140

Structural Height

20

Outlet Gates

Valve - 1

Hazard Potential

Low

Foundations

Soil

Nid Height

20
       
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.