Lawton Lake Reservoir Report
Nearby: Allen Jack Oknoname 031050
Last Updated: December 6, 2025
Lawton Lake, located in Comanche, Oklahoma, is a local government-owned reservoir primarily used for recreation.
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Summary
The earth dam, with a height of 15 feet and a length of 800 feet, was completed in 1930 and has a storage capacity of 205 acre-feet. The lake covers a surface area of 64 acres and is fed by a tributary to Squaw Creek, with a maximum discharge of 700 cubic feet per second.
Despite its fair condition assessment in 2018, Lawton Lake poses a significant hazard potential, with a very high risk assessment rating. The dam is regulated and inspected by the Oklahoma Water Resources Board, ensuring that state permitting, inspection, and enforcement measures are in place to maintain its safety and integrity. The spillway, controlled by a single valve, helps manage water levels in the reservoir to prevent flooding and protect downstream areas.
For water resource and climate enthusiasts, Lawton Lake offers a fascinating study in reservoir management and dam safety. With its scenic location and recreational opportunities, this reservoir serves as a valuable resource for the community while highlighting the importance of maintaining infrastructure to mitigate potential risks and ensure water resource sustainability in the face of changing climate conditions.
Year Completed |
1930 |
Dam Length |
800 |
Dam Height |
15 |
River Or Stream |
TRIBUTARY TO SQUAW CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
64 |
Hydraulic Height |
15 |
Drainage Area |
1 |
Nid Storage |
205 |
Structural Height |
15 |
Outlet Gates |
Valve - 1 |
Hazard Potential |
Significant |
Foundations |
Soil |
Nid Height |
15 |
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.
Lawton Lake