Cavanal Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Cavanal, a privately owned dam located in Le Flore, Oklahoma, was completed in 1955 and serves a primary purpose of "Other." The dam is classified as an Earth type, with a height of 15 feet and a hydraulic height of 6 feet.


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Summary

It has a maximum storage capacity of 90 acre-feet and a normal storage capacity of 30 acre-feet. The dam spans 900 feet in length and is situated on the TR-ROCK CR river/stream.

Despite its low hazard potential, Cavanal is considered to have a very high risk due to its condition assessment being "Not Rated." The dam has one valve outlet gate and a controlled spillway with a width of 1 foot. The inspection frequency for Cavanal is every 5 years, with the last inspection taking place in January 2010. The dam is under the regulatory jurisdiction of the Oklahoma Water Resources Board (OWRB) and has state permitting, inspection, and enforcement in place.

Overall, Cavanal presents an intriguing case study for water resource and climate enthusiasts due to its unique design and risk profile. The dam's location in Le Flore County, Oklahoma, and its association with the Tulsa District of the US Army Corps of Engineers add to its significance. As efforts to manage and mitigate risks associated with dams continue to evolve, Cavanal serves as a notable example of the complexities involved in ensuring the safety and sustainability of water infrastructure.

Year Completed

1955

Dam Length

900

Dam Height

15

River Or Stream

TR-ROCK CR

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

19

Hydraulic Height

6

Nid Storage

90

Structural Height

15

Outlet Gates

Valve - 1

Hazard Potential

Low

Foundations

Soil

Nid Height

15
       
Seasonal Comparison

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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.