Blackwell Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 21, 2025
Blackwell, also known as Blackwell Lake, is a water supply dam located in Kay, Oklahoma.
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Summary
Built in 1950, this buttress dam stands at a height of 20 feet with a length of 1000 feet, providing a storage capacity of 50 acre-feet. The dam serves the primary purpose of water supply for the local government, with a controlled spillway and one valve outlet gate.
Managed by the Oklahoma Water Resources Board, Blackwell is regulated and inspected to ensure its structural integrity and safety for the surrounding community. Despite its low hazard potential, the dam is considered to have a very high risk level, emphasizing the importance of regular inspections and risk management measures. With the Chickaskia River flowing nearby and a surface area of 53 acres, Blackwell plays a crucial role in the water resource management of the region.
For water resource and climate enthusiasts, Blackwell offers a fascinating example of infrastructure designed to meet the water supply needs of the local government. Situated in a picturesque location in the city of Blackwell, Oklahoma, this dam provides a vital source of water while also serving as a reminder of the importance of effective dam management in the face of changing climatic conditions. As climate change continues to impact water resources, the resilience and functionality of dams like Blackwell become increasingly significant for sustainable water management in the region.
Year Completed |
1950 |
Dam Length |
1000 |
Dam Height |
20 |
River Or Stream |
CHICKASKIA RIVER |
Primary Dam Type |
Buttress |
Surface Area |
53 |
Hydraulic Height |
20 |
Nid Storage |
50 |
Structural Height |
20 |
Outlet Gates |
Valve - 1 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Nid Height |
20 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Chikaskia River Near Blackwell
|
196cfs |
Chikaskia R Nr Corbin
|
139cfs |
Salt Fork Arkansas River At Tonkawa
|
407cfs |
Arkansas R At Arkansas City
|
795cfs |
Slate C At Wellington
|
15cfs |
Walnut R At Winfield
|
294cfs |
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.
Blackwell