Pawnee Lake Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 6, 2025
Pawnee Lake, located in Pawnee, Oklahoma, is a vital water resource managed by the local government for water supply purposes.
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Summary
Constructed in 1932 by WR Holloway, this earth dam stands at a height of 45 feet, with a hydraulic height and structural height matching that measurement. The reservoir has a storage capacity of 5,245 acre-feet and covers a surface area of 530 acres, drawing water from Skedee Creek to serve the community of Pawnee.
With a drainage area of 12.98 square miles and a maximum discharge of 18,600 cubic feet per second, Pawnee Lake plays a crucial role in flood control and water management in the region. The dam, equipped with a controlled spillway and a single valve outlet gate, has been assessed to have a high hazard potential but is currently in fair condition. Despite its age, Pawnee Lake continues to provide essential services to the community while facing the challenges posed by a very high risk rating.
Ensuring the safety and reliability of Pawnee Lake requires regular inspections and maintenance, with the last assessment conducted in February 2021. While the dam's hazard potential remains a concern, stakeholders are committed to managing the risks associated with this critical infrastructure. As water resource and climate enthusiasts, staying informed about the condition and management of Pawnee Lake is essential to safeguarding this valuable asset for future generations.
Year Completed |
1932 |
Dam Length |
1908 |
Dam Height |
45 |
River Or Stream |
SKEDEE CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
530 |
Hydraulic Height |
45 |
Drainage Area |
12.98 |
Nid Storage |
5245 |
Structural Height |
45 |
Outlet Gates |
Valve - 1 |
Hazard Potential |
High |
Foundations |
Rock, Soil |
Nid Height |
45 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Black Bear Creek At Pawnee
|
11cfs |
Arkansas River At Ralston
|
1820cfs |
Hominy Creek Near Hominy
|
2cfs |
Cimarron River Near Ripley
|
544cfs |
Salt Fork Arkansas River At Tonkawa
|
535cfs |
Chikaskia River Near Blackwell
|
242cfs |
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.
Pawnee Lake