Mckown Reservoir Report
Nearby: Carter No 1 Chickasaw Lake
Last Updated: December 21, 2025
Mckown, also known as Mc Kown Dam, is a privately owned structure located in Carter County, Oklahoma, near the city of Ardmore.
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Summary
Built in 1965 by the USDA NRCS, this earth dam stands at a height of 22 feet and spans 500 feet in length, creating a reservoir with a storage capacity of 150 acre-feet. The dam is regulated by the Oklahoma Water Resources Board (OWRB) and is inspected regularly to ensure its safety and compliance with state regulations.
The primary purpose of Mckown Dam is classified as 'Other', with a spillway designed for controlled discharge in case of excess water. Despite being rated as having a low hazard potential, the dam is considered to have a very high risk due to its condition assessment being listed as 'Not Rated'. Emergency preparedness measures, such as an Emergency Action Plan (EAP) and risk management strategies, are not currently in place for the structure. With a maximum discharge capacity of 1260 cubic feet per second, Mckown Dam plays a crucial role in managing water resources along the TR-Sand Creek.
Overall, Mckown Dam serves as a vital water management infrastructure in Oklahoma, contributing to flood control and providing essential storage for agricultural and recreational purposes. As climate change continues to impact water resources, the proper maintenance and assessment of structures like Mckown Dam are paramount to ensure the safety and resilience of the surrounding communities and ecosystems. Enthusiasts in water resource management and climate resilience can appreciate the intricate details and significance of Mckown Dam in safeguarding water security in the region.
Year Completed |
1965 |
Dam Length |
500 |
Dam Height |
22 |
River Or Stream |
TR-SAND CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
20 |
Hydraulic Height |
22 |
Nid Storage |
150 |
Structural Height |
22 |
Outlet Gates |
Valve - 1 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Soil |
Nid Height |
22 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Washita River Near Dickson
|
317cfs |
Rock Creek At Sulphur
|
8cfs |
Pennington Creek Near Reagan
|
10cfs |
Mud Creek Near Courtney
|
0cfs |
Blue River Near Connerville
|
44cfs |
Red River Near Gainesville
|
256cfs |
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.
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Mckown