David L Mcmahan Reservoir Report
Nearby: Coppedge Jack Oknoname 063028
Last Updated: December 6, 2025
Located in Calvin, Oklahoma, the David L Mcmahan dam stands tall along the Canadian River, built in 1980 for purposes beyond just water storage.
°F
°F
mph
Wind
%
Humidity
Summary
This privately owned earth dam, with a structural height of 22 feet and a hydraulic height of 15 feet, serves as a crucial resource for the region. With a storage capacity of 66 acre-feet and a maximum discharge of 1,473 cubic feet per second, this dam plays a vital role in managing water resources in the area.
Managed by the Oklahoma Water Resources Board, the David L Mcmahan dam is state-regulated and undergoes regular inspections to ensure its safety and functionality. With a low hazard potential and a very high risk assessment rating, this dam remains a key asset for water resource and climate enthusiasts in the region. Despite not being rated for its current condition, the dam's importance in water management cannot be understated, making it a significant structure for both local communities and environmental stakeholders alike.
As part of the Tulsa District of the US Army Corps of Engineers, the David L Mcmahan dam also features a controlled spillway and a single valve outlet gate. Although not associated with any federal agencies for funding or construction, this dam continues to serve its purpose efficiently, highlighting the importance of private ownership in water resource management. For those interested in the intersection of water resources, climate, and infrastructure, the David L Mcmahan dam remains a fascinating site to study and appreciate.
Year Completed |
1980 |
Dam Length |
300 |
Dam Height |
22 |
River Or Stream |
CANADIAN RIVER |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Hydraulic Height |
15 |
Nid Storage |
66 |
Structural Height |
22 |
Outlet Gates |
Valve - 1 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Soil |
Nid Height |
22 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Canadian River At Calvin
|
361cfs |
Little River Near Sasakwa
|
12cfs |
North Canadian River Near Wetumka
|
209cfs |
Little River Near Tecumseh
|
8cfs |
North Canadian River At Shawnee
|
177cfs |
Blue River Near Connerville
|
54cfs |
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.
David L Mcmahan