Robert S.
Wind
Humidity
Kerr Lock and Dam, located on the Arkansas River in Oklahoma, serves multiple purposes including hydroelectric power generation, navigation, and recreation. Completed in 1970 by the US Army Corps of Engineers, this gravity dam stands at 75 feet high and spans 7,230 feet in length, with a capacity to hold 525,700 acre-feet of water. Despite its critical role in water resource management, recent inspections have identified deteriorating conditions of the spillway gates, posing a risk to navigation capability and potential downstream impacts in the event of failure.
To manage these risks, the US Army Corps of Engineers has implemented various measures such as rehabilitating and painting the gates, conducting emergency exercises with local responders, updating the Emergency Action Plan, and maintaining a comprehensive monitoring program. While the dam is not designed to reduce downstream flooding, its failure could still result in significant impacts to communities along the Arkansas River, highlighting the importance of ongoing risk management efforts. Through a combination of infrastructure maintenance, emergency preparedness, and continuous monitoring, the Robert S. Kerr Lock and Dam continues to play a vital role in ensuring water resource sustainability and climate resilience in the region.
Year Completed |
1970 |
Dam Length |
7230 |
Dam Height |
75 |
River Or Stream |
ARKANSAS RIVER |
Primary Dam Type |
Gravity |
Surface Area |
32800 |
Length Of Locks |
600 |
Hydraulic Height |
60 |
Drainage Area |
147756 |
Nid Storage |
525700 |
Structural Height |
75 |
Hazard Potential |
High |
Foundations |
Rock, Soil |
Nid Height |
75 |
Poteau River Near Panama
|
483cfs |
Arkansas River At Ft. Smith
|
21700cfs |
Little Lee Creek Near Short
|
34cfs |
Lee Creek At Short
|
28cfs |
Lee Creek Near Short
|
97cfs |
Illinois River Near Gore
|
132cfs |
| Location | Reservations | Toilets |
|---|---|---|
Short Mountain Cove - Kerr Reservoir
|
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Applegate Cove - Kerr Reservoir
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Cowlington Point - Kerr Reservoir
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