R. James Unruh Reservoir Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

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Summary

James Unruh Reservoir, located in Tulsa, Oklahoma, is a local government-owned structure that serves as a vital flood risk reduction asset for the community. Built in 1950 and designed by W.R. Holloway, this Earth dam stands at a height of 15 feet and spans a length of 13,300 feet, with a storage capacity of 100 acre-feet and a surface area of 325 acres. Despite its fair condition assessment and high hazard potential, the reservoir is inspected annually to ensure its safety and effectiveness in managing flood risks.

Managed by the Oklahoma Water Resources Board, the dam at R. James Unruh Reservoir plays a crucial role in protecting the surrounding area from potential flooding events. Although it lacks a spillway, the reservoir's purpose is solely focused on flood risk reduction, highlighting its importance in safeguarding the community against water-related disasters. With a high risk assessment rating and a history of modifications to enhance its functionality, the reservoir remains a key component in the region's water resource and climate resilience efforts.

Ensuring the safety and integrity of R. James Unruh Reservoir is a top priority, with regular inspections and maintenance activities in place to address any potential risks or issues. Despite its age, the reservoir continues to fulfill its primary purpose effectively, showcasing its significance in water management and disaster preparedness. As a notable feature in the Tulsa District, this reservoir stands as a testament to the importance of sustainable water resource infrastructure in mitigating climate-related challenges and safeguarding communities against the impacts of extreme weather events.

Year Completed

1950

Dam Length

13300

Dam Height

15

River Or Stream

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Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

325

Hydraulic Height

15

Nid Storage

100

Structural Height

15

Hazard Potential

High

Foundations

Soil

Nid Height

15
       
Seasonal Comparison

Weather Forecast

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Nearby Streamflow Levels

R. James Unruh ReservoirBird Ck at State Highway 266 near Catoosa Preview Bird Ck At State Highway 266 Near Catoosa
176.0cfs
176cfs
R. James Unruh ReservoirHaikey Creek at 101st St South at Tulsa Preview Haikey Creek At 101st St South At Tulsa
1.98cfs
2cfs
R. James Unruh ReservoirLittle Haikey Creek at 101st St South at Tulsa Preview Little Haikey Creek At 101st St South At Tulsa
0.04cfs
0cfs
R. James Unruh ReservoirCoal Creek at Tulsa Preview Coal Creek At Tulsa
0.6cfs
1cfs
R. James Unruh ReservoirBird Creek near Owasso Preview Bird Creek Near Owasso
135.0cfs
135cfs
R. James Unruh ReservoirJoe Creek at 61st St at Tulsa Preview Joe Creek At 61st St At Tulsa
2.48cfs
2cfs

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.
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