Great Salt Plains Dam Reservoir Report
Nearby: Oknoname 30054 Steffen Pond
Last Updated: December 13, 2025
Great Salt Plains Dam, also known as Great Salt Plains Lake, is a federal-owned structure located in Alfalfa County, Oklahoma.
°F
°F
mph
Wind
%
Humidity
Summary
Completed in 1941 by the US Army Corps of Engineers, the dam serves primarily for flood risk reduction along the Salt Fork of the Arkansas River. Standing at a height of 68 feet and with a volume of 2,026,000 cubic yards, it has a maximum storage capacity of 990,200 acre-feet and covers a surface area of 8,690 acres.
The dam's hazard potential is classified as high, prompting regular risk assessments and management measures to ensure the safety of downstream communities. The risk management activities include emergency exercises, updates to the Emergency Action Plan (EAP), detailed inspections, and continuous monitoring of the dam's conditions. In the event of a dam failure, the towns of Nash, Pond Creek, Jefferson, Lamont, Fairfax, Tonkawa, Ralston, Blackburn, and Ponca City would be most immediately impacted, underscoring the importance of ongoing vigilance and preparedness efforts.
Overall, Great Salt Plains Dam plays a crucial role in mitigating flood risks and protecting surrounding communities. With a scheduled risk assessment in 2023 and a comprehensive risk management plan in place, the dam remains a vital piece of infrastructure in Oklahoma's water resource and climate resilience efforts.
Year Completed |
1941 |
Dam Length |
6010 |
Dam Height |
68 |
River Or Stream |
SALT FORK OF ARKANSAS RIVER |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
8690 |
Hydraulic Height |
56 |
Drainage Area |
3200 |
Nid Storage |
990200 |
Structural Height |
68 |
Outlet Gates |
Uncontrolled - 0 |
Hazard Potential |
High |
Foundations |
Rock, Soil |
Nid Height |
68 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Medicine Lodge R Nr Kiowa
|
110cfs |
Salt Fork Arkansas River Nr Alva
|
94cfs |
Skeleton Creek At Enid
|
9cfs |
Chikaskia R Nr Corbin
|
145cfs |
Cimarron River Near Waynoka
|
103cfs |
Salt Fork Arkansas River At Tonkawa
|
502cfs |
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.
Great Salt Plains Dam