Purcell City Lake Reservoir Report
Nearby: Oknoname 087037 John R
Last Updated: December 15, 2025
Purcell City Lake, located in McClain County, Oklahoma, is a local government-owned reservoir with a primary purpose of recreation.
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Summary
Built in 1953, this earth dam structure stands at 31 feet in height and spans 1850 feet in length, with a storage capacity of 5600 acre-feet. The lake covers a surface area of 157 acres and is fed by a tributary of Walnut Creek.
Managed by the Oklahoma Water Resources Board, Purcell City Lake is regulated and inspected by state agencies to ensure its safety and compliance with regulations. With a low hazard potential and a very high risk assessment rating, the lake presents an ideal environment for outdoor activities such as fishing, boating, and picnicking. Despite its age, the dam structure has not been rated for its condition, indicating the need for further evaluation.
Water enthusiasts and climate advocates visiting Purcell City Lake will appreciate its scenic beauty and recreational opportunities. With controlled spillways, valve outlets, and a maximum discharge capacity of 3200 cubic feet per second, the lake offers a safe and enjoyable environment for visitors. As a valuable water resource in the region, the lake serves as a vital recreational hub for the community and a testament to sustainable water management practices.
Year Completed |
1953 |
Dam Length |
1850 |
Dam Height |
31 |
River Or Stream |
TRIBUTARY OF WALNUT CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
157 |
Hydraulic Height |
31 |
Drainage Area |
3.85 |
Nid Storage |
5600 |
Structural Height |
31 |
Outlet Gates |
Valve - 1 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Soil |
Nid Height |
31 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
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.
Purcell City Lake