Ardmore City Lake Reservoir Report

Last Updated: January 11, 2026

Ardmore City Lake, located in Carter County, Oklahoma, serves as a vital water supply source for the city of Ardmore.


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Summary

Completed in 1910, this earth dam stands at a height of 40 feet, with a capacity to hold 770 acre-feet of water. The lake covers a surface area of 142 acres and is primarily regulated by the Oklahoma Water Resources Board.

The dam features a controlled spillway and a single valve outlet gate for water release. Despite being classified as having a low hazard potential, the risk assessment for Ardmore City Lake indicates a very high risk level, emphasizing the importance of proper management and maintenance. With a history dating back over a century, this water resource remains a key asset for the community, ensuring a reliable water source for years to come.

For water resource and climate enthusiasts, Ardmore City Lake offers a fascinating glimpse into the intersection of infrastructure, sustainability, and environmental stewardship. As a crucial component of the region's water supply infrastructure, this historic earth dam serves not only as a source of water but also as a reminder of the ongoing need for responsible water management practices. With its controlled spillway and low hazard potential, Ardmore City Lake stands as a testament to the careful balance between human needs and natural resources, providing a valuable lesson in resilience and adaptability in the face of climate challenges.

Year Completed

1910

Dam Length

650

Dam Height

40

River Or Stream

TR-CADDO CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

142

Hydraulic Height

35

Nid Storage

770

Structural Height

40

Outlet Gates

Valve - 1

Hazard Potential

Low

Foundations

Soil

Nid Height

40
       
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.