Scs-Sandy Creek Site-11 Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 8, 2025

SCS-Sandy Creek Site-11, located in Pontotoc, Oklahoma, is a state-regulated earth dam designed by the USDA NRCS in 1976 for flood risk reduction along the Canadian Sandy Creek.


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Summary

The dam stands at a height of 38 feet and spans 1550 feet, with a storage capacity of 1328 acre-feet and a surface area of 30 acres. Despite being rated as having a low hazard potential, the risk assessment for this dam is very high, highlighting the need for proper maintenance and management.

The dam features a controlled spillway and a single valve outlet gate for water release. Although the condition assessment is currently marked as "Not Rated," regular inspections are conducted every 5 years, with the last inspection dating back to January 1980. The dam is under the jurisdiction of the state regulatory agency OWRB and falls under the supervision of the Natural Resources Conservation Service. With a risk management plan in place, this site serves as a vital infrastructure for flood control in the region, safeguarding the surrounding area from potential inundation.

In the event of an emergency, the dam's emergency action plan status is unknown, emphasizing the need for updated protocols and guidelines. Despite its age, SCS-Sandy Creek Site-11 continues to play a crucial role in mitigating flood risks in the area, thanks to its strategic location and design. As water resource and climate enthusiasts, it is essential to recognize the significance of such structures in ensuring the safety and sustainability of our communities amidst changing environmental conditions.

Year Completed

1976

Dam Length

1550

Dam Height

38

River Or Stream

CANADIAN SANDY CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

30

Hydraulic Height

38

Nid Storage

1328

Structural Height

38

Outlet Gates

Valve - 1

Hazard Potential

Low

Foundations

Soil

Nid Height

38
       
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.