Tenkiller Dam - Dike Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 6, 2025

Tenkiller Dam, also known as Tenkiller Lake, is a gravity-type dam located on the Illinois River in Gore, Oklahoma.


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Summary

Built in 1952 by the US Army Corps of Engineers, the dam stands at a height of 197 feet and has a structural height of 197 feet. With a dam length of 4940 feet and a maximum storage capacity of 1,230,800 acre-feet, Tenkiller Dam serves primarily for flood risk reduction and hydroelectric purposes.

The dam is managed by the US Army Corps of Engineers, who continuously monitor its condition and implement risk management measures to mitigate potential hazards. Despite its high hazard potential, the dam is equipped with controlled spillways and is regularly inspected to ensure its structural integrity. In the event of severe weather or increased water levels, the dam may release water downstream to manage water levels and relieve pressure on the structure.

Overall, Tenkiller Dam plays a crucial role in flood risk reduction in the region and serves as a vital piece of infrastructure for water resource management. As climate change continues to impact weather patterns, the importance of maintaining and monitoring dams like Tenkiller Dam becomes increasingly essential to ensure the safety and security of surrounding communities.

Year Completed

1952

Dam Length

4940

Dam Height

197

River Or Stream

ILLINOIS RIVER

Primary Dam Type

Gravity

Surface Area

12900

Hydraulic Height

192

Drainage Area

1610

Nid Storage

1230800

Structural Height

197

Hazard Potential

High

Nid Height

197
       
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.