Chouteau Lock And Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 22, 2025

Chouteau Lock and Dam, located on the Verdigris River in Oklahoma, was completed in 1970 by the US Army Corps of Engineers for the primary purpose of navigation.


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Summary

This gravity dam stands at a height of 53 feet and has a length of 11,690 feet, with a maximum storage capacity of 23,340 acre-feet. The dam features a controlled spillway with a width of 386 feet and a single lock chamber that is 600 feet long and 110 feet wide.

Despite being classified as having a significant hazard potential, USACE has implemented various risk management measures to ensure the safety and integrity of Chouteau Lock and Dam. These measures include conducting regular inspections, emergency exercises with local responders, and updating the Emergency Action Plan to enhance emergency response actions. The dam is well-maintained through continuous operations and maintenance activities, with a monitoring system in place to assess changing conditions and ensure the structure's stability.

USACE's proactive approach to risk management at Chouteau Lock and Dam mitigates the potential impacts of a dam failure, which could disrupt navigation and lead to economic impacts. While the dam is not designed to reduce downstream flooding, USACE's efforts aim to protect downstream communities and maintain the dam's functionality for navigation purposes. With these measures in place, Chouteau Lock and Dam continues to play a crucial role in water resource management and climate resilience in the region.

Year Completed

1970

Dam Length

11690

Dam Height

53

River Or Stream

VERDIGRIS RIVER

Primary Dam Type

Gravity

Surface Area

2270

Length Of Locks

600

Hydraulic Height

50

Drainage Area

240

Nid Storage

23340

Structural Height

53

Hazard Potential

Significant

Foundations

Rock, Soil

Nid Height

53
       
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.