Kaw Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 16, 2025

Kaw Dam, also known as Kaw Lake, is a gravity dam located on the Arkansas River in Ponca City, Oklahoma.


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Summary

Completed in 1976 by the US Army Corps of Engineers, the dam serves multiple purposes including flood risk reduction, hydroelectric power generation, recreation, and water supply. It has a structural height of 125 feet and a length of 9466 feet, with a storage capacity of 1,327,160 acre-feet and a surface area of 16,750 acres.

With a high hazard potential, Kaw Dam is regularly inspected and monitored by the US Army Corps of Engineers to manage flood risks and ensure the dam's structural integrity. The agency works to address all types of flood risks associated with the dam, including managing water levels and releasing water downstream during severe weather events. Additionally, the Corps actively engages with local emergency managers and the public to raise awareness and prepare for potential dam-related emergencies. The emergency action plan for Kaw Dam is regularly updated, and maintenance and repairs are performed as needed to keep the dam functioning properly.

Year Completed

1976

Dam Length

9466

Dam Height

125

River Or Stream

ARKANSAS RIVER

Primary Dam Type

Gravity

Surface Area

16750

Hydraulic Height

120

Drainage Area

6652

Nid Storage

1327160

Structural Height

125

Hazard Potential

High

Foundations

Rock, Soil

Nid Height

125
       
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.