Constructed in 1922 by designers Hetgius Thomason and Bull, the earth dam stands at a height of 75 feet, with a storage capacity of 72,400 acre-feet and a surface area of 1,584 acres. The dam serves the primary purpose of water supply, drawing water from Spavinaw Creek and providing a crucial resource for the surrounding area.
With a maximum discharge capacity of 275,000 cubic feet per second and a controlled spillway, Spavinaw Lake plays a crucial role in flood control and water management in the region. The dam is inspected regularly, with a fair condition assessment and a high hazard potential, necessitating diligent monitoring and maintenance. Despite its age, Spavinaw Lake remains a key component of the water infrastructure in Oklahoma, ensuring a reliable water supply for the community and contributing to the resilience of the local ecosystem in the face of climate challenges.
Overall, Spavinaw Lake stands as a testament to the ingenuity of its designers and the importance of sustainable water resource management in the face of a changing climate. With its history dating back nearly a century, the reservoir continues to serve as a critical water supply source, highlighting the essential role that infrastructure plays in supporting communities and ecosystems in the face of environmental threats.
Wind
Humidity
Year Completed |
1922 |
Dam Length |
2400 |
Dam Height |
75 |
River Or Stream |
SPAVINAW CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
1584 |
Hydraulic Height |
75 |
Drainage Area |
390 |
Nid Storage |
72400 |
Structural Height |
75 |
Outlet Gates |
Slide (sluice gate) - 1 |
Hazard Potential |
High |
Foundations |
Rock, Soil |
Nid Height |
75 |
Neosho River Near Langley
|
13000cfs |
Spavinaw Creek Near Eucha
|
1250cfs |
Neosho River Near Chouteau
|
199cfs |
Big Cabin Creek Near Big Cabin
|
61cfs |
Beaty Creek Near Jay
|
27cfs |
Spavinaw Creek Near Colcord
|
554cfs |
| Location | Reservations | Toilets |
|---|---|---|
Spavinaw State Park
|
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Cherokee State Park
|
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Snowdale State Park
|